Are you a Candidate for Dental Implants?

For an adult, missing a tooth can be an embarrassing problem. If the tooth is in the front, where it is an easily seen when you smile, it may affect you self-esteem and your image. You want to have a confidant smile. The good news is that there is something you can do to replace that missing tooth. Dental implants are a popular and permanent way of replacing teeth at any age.

In addition, dental implants can replace more than one tooth and for many reasons. You might have lost your tooth due to injury or it might even be a hereditary problem. With dental implants, your oral surgeon can easily replace one tooth. The implant will replace both the tooth and the root. An implant can also replace several teeth. In this case, the implant will replace a row of teeth and a few of the roots. If you are missing all of your teeth, an implant can be made like full dentures. Dental implants take little recovery time and look very natural, which makes them a good choice for many people.

When you go to your dentist for a missing tooth, there are several factors he or she will look at to determine whether or not you are a candidate for dental implants. You will work with your dentist or an oral surgeon to check the following factors:

Good dental hygiene: One of the first things your oral surgeon will look at is your current dental hygiene. This is important because the success of your implants will be determined by your oral hygiene. This means you must make a commitment to visit your dentist on a regular basis and brush and floss properly.

Healthy gum tissue: You will also need to have healthy gum tissue before you get any dental implants. This is because your dental implants will rest against your gum and when you have your surgery, your gums will be cut and stitched. You will need to be able to heal from the surgery.

Jaw bone: Another factor is whether nor not you have adequate bone in your jaw. You will need the bone to support the implant. Your dental implant is designed to last you for years and if your bones are not strong enough, they will not be adequately supported.

Space: Your oral surgeon will also look at the space that you have. In some cases, the space might be too small for an implant. If the space is too big for one implant, you might need further work on the area before the implant procedure.

Health: Your oral surgeon will also take your health into account before deciding if you can support a dental implant. Some patients with diabetes may not be good candidates for this procedure because they do not heal as efficiently as others.

If you are missing teeth, you can work with your dentist and other dental care providers to replace the missing teeth. You will find that dental implants will offer you a confidant, healthy smile.