Who Can Get Dental Implants?

If you're someone who is missing one or more teeth, then you've come to the right place. Dental implants are a fantastic option for replacing missing teeth and restoring your smile. But who exactly can get dental implants? 

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a revolutionary solution for replacing missing teeth. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, dental implants are designed to mimic the look and function of natural teeth.

So, what exactly are dental implants? Essentially, they consist of three main components: the implant itself, an abutment, and a crown. The implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into your jawbone. This acts as the foundation for your new tooth. The abutment connects the implant to the crown, which is custom-made to match your surrounding teeth perfectly.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Who is a good candidate for dental implants? This is a common question among those considering this popular tooth replacement option. Dental implants are not suitable for everyone, but many people can benefit from them.

• First and foremost, good candidates for dental implants should have healthy gums and sufficient bone density in the jaw to support the implant. This is because the implant needs a strong foundation to be successful. If you have experienced significant bone loss or have gum disease, your dentist may recommend treatments to improve these conditions before proceeding with implants.
• Age is not necessarily a determining factor when it comes to candidacy for dental implants. However, it's important that patients are done growing before undergoing the procedure. Additionally, overall health plays an important role in determining eligibility for dental implants. Good oral hygiene habits and regular visits to the dentist are crucial.
• Smokers may still be considered as candidates; however, they will need to quit smoking prior to receiving their implant due to the increased risk of complications during healing.

The best way to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants is by consulting with an experienced dentist or oral surgeon who specializes in implant dentistry. They will evaluate your specific circumstances and provide personalized recommendations based on your unique needs and goals.

The Implant Procedure

The implant procedure is a crucial step in the dental implant process. It involves several stages and requires precision and expertise from the dentist.

First, the dentist will assess your oral health to determine if you are a good candidate for implants. This includes examining your jawbone density and overall oral hygiene. If necessary, they may recommend additional treatments, such as bone grafting or gum disease treatment, before proceeding with the implant procedure. Once you are deemed suitable for implants, the next step is to surgically place the implant into your jawbone. This is done under local anesthesia to ensure minimal discomfort during the procedure. The dentist will make an incision in your gums to expose the underlying bone and then carefully drill a hole to insert the titanium implant. After placing the implant, it needs time to integrate with your natural bone through a process called osseointegration. This can take several months, during which you may be provided with a temporary restoration or denture. Once osseointegration is complete, abutments are attached to the implants, which act as connectors between them and artificial teeth (crowns). Impressions of your mouth are taken so that custom-made crowns can be fabricated.

After ensuring the proper fit and alignment of the crowns, they are securely attached to the abutments using dental cement or screws. Remember that each patient's situation is unique; therefore, it's important to consult with an experienced dentist who can guide you through every step of this intricate procedure.

Aftercare for Dental Implants

Taking care of your dental implants is crucial to ensure their long-term success and maintain a healthy smile. While the implant procedure itself may be complete, it's important not to neglect the necessary aftercare. Here are some tips to help you properly care for your dental implants.

• First and foremost, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily will prevent plaque buildup around the implant site. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid damaging the implant or surrounding gums.
• In addition to regular brushing and flossing, using an antibacterial mouthwash can further reduce bacteria in your mouth, promoting healing and preventing infection. Your dentist may also recommend specific oral rinses specifically formulated for dental implants.
• Avoid chewing on hard foods or using your teeth as tools, as this can place unnecessary pressure on the implant and potentially damage it. If you participate in contact sports or activities with a risk of facial injury, wearing a protective mouthguard is highly recommended.
• Regular check-ups with your dentist are vital for monitoring the health of your dental implants. These visits allow them to assess the stability of the implants, check for any signs of complications such as infection or inflammation, and address any concerns you may have regarding your oral health.

By following these simple aftercare steps, you can ensure that your dental implants stay strong and continue providing you with lasting function and aesthetics.

AV Dental Wellness Group, located in Lancaster, CA, is equipped with the best dentists and modern technologies that help to impart dental care services to patients. Call us at (661) 942-1179 and schedule an appointment with the dentist to learn more about the dental services we offer.