If you are missing one or more teeth, you may be a good candidate for dental implants. Dental implants are a popular choice for patients looking for teeth replacements, as they offer many benefits over other treatment options. In this blog post, Ellen Stirling Dental will discuss the qualities that make a patient an ideal candidate for dental implants.

Who Would Benefit From Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a great option for restoring missing teeth. Dental implant treatment can help patients with the following:

• Tooth Loss.
  Patients dealing with tooth loss may be indicated for dental implants. When teeth are missing due to decay, trauma, or periodontal disease, dental implants can replace the missing teeth. The titanium implant acts as an artificial tooth root inserted into the jawbone and provides a foundation for the prosthetic tooth.
  
  
• Jawbone Deterioration.
  Over time, when teeth are lost, the jawbone begins to deteriorate and shrink. Dental implants can help prevent this by stimulating the jawbone, providing it with the same stimulation as a natural tooth root.
  
  
• Improved Speech.
  As dentures are known to slip out of place, they can often cause speaking difficulties. Patients with speech issues caused by missing teeth may be indicated for dental implants. Implants will not move around like dentures, allowing patients to articulate their words more clearly.
  
  
• Improved Appearance.
  Missing teeth can cause the face to look sunken and aged. Dental implants can restore your lip and cheek support so you can have a more youthful look. It can also match the colour, shape, and size of your natural teeth, providing a more pleasing appearance. 

Who Are Good Candidates for Dental Implants?

Dental implant treatment can be a great solution for many patients. For those considering implant dentistry, several important factors should be considered to determine if dental implants are the right choice.

• Good Oral Health.
  One of the first qualifications of an ideal candidate for dental implants is having a healthy mouth and gums and sufficient strong bone tissue to support the implant. The patient’s overall dental health is also a factor. Gum disease or other issues must be addressed before implant placement.
  
  
• Realistic Expectations.
  It’s also important that patients have realistic expectations about the results of their dental implant procedure and understand the commitment to post-operative care that will be necessary for successful healing. The ideal dental implant candidate should also be willing to commit to good oral hygiene habits and regular dental check-ups.
  
  
• Good Overall Health and Habits.
  Other considerations for being an ideal implant candidate include having a healthy immune system and the ability to heal quickly from oral surgery. Smoking can interfere with healing, so it’s important that patients either quit smoking or be willing to commit to not using tobacco products while undergoing dental implant treatment. Patients should also be aware that dental implants are not suitable for everyone. People with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and bone cancer, may not be indicated for dental implants due to their weakened immune systems and increased risks of infection or failure.

Can I Have Implants if I Have Bone Loss?

Yes, you can still be a good candidate for dental implants, even if you do not have adequate bone density. Your dentist will assess the bone and bone density level to determine whether you are a suitable candidate. In cases where there is significant bone loss but good bone health, we recommend a bone grafting or sinus lift procedure before the dental implant placement.

Can You Have Dental Implants if Your Gums Have Receded?

It is possible to restore receded gums with a gum graft before having dental implants placed. Your dentist can check your oral health and determine the most appropriate action. In cases where the gum recession has been caused by active gum disease, it is important to manage and control that prior to any other restorative procedures.

What Medical Conditions Preclude Dental Implants?

Certain medical health issues can make dental implants a less-than-ideal choice. Conditions such as diabetes, cancer, autoimmune diseases, and some cardiac disorders can inhibit the body’s ability to heal from the surgery required for placing the implant. Additionally, heavy smokers are more likely to experience complications with the healing process after placement of the implant.

Ultimately, your dentist will determine if implants are the right choice for you. Proper hygiene and regular visits to your dentist are key factors in being a good candidate for implants. Taking good care of your teeth makes you a suitable candidate for the surgical procedure. With the help of your dentist, you can determine if dental implants are the right choice for you. They will customise a treatment plan that will provide your needs.

When Are Dental Implants Not an Option?

Patients must have healthy gums and enough bone to support the implant. Therefore, those with periodontal disease are not good candidates for dental implants. People who suffer from serious chronic illnesses should also avoid getting dental implants. This is because their bodies may not be able to cope with dental implant surgery and the implant. Additionally, those with a history of radiation therapy in the head or neck area will likely not be good candidates for this procedure. For patients looking to address missing or damaged teeth, consider other dental treatments like removable dentures or conventional bridges.

Final Thoughts

Dental implants are an excellent tooth replacement option for many people. That said, it’s important to determine if an individual is a good candidate before undergoing the procedure. With proper care and strict oral hygiene practice, dental implants can provide a durable, long-lasting solution for missing teeth. Interested in dental implants? Schedule an appointment with Ellen Stirling Dental today! Our dental team will assess your health and determine whether implants are right for you. Book your initial consultation online or visit our dental clinic.