What Makes Someone a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants have allowed many patients to replace missing teeth with high-quality restorations that look, feel, and work just like the real thing. They are considered the best form of tooth replacement available because they are incredibly lifelike, highly functional, require only the same hygiene as real teeth, and can last a lifetime with excellent care. However, a patient will need to meet certain oral health requirements to get them. Here’s what makes someone a good candidate for dental implants and how you can get to that point if you’re not there yet.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

Dental implants consist of a titanium rod and an artificial tooth. This rod is surgically placed in the jawbone and the artificial tooth is attached to it above the gumline. Over the course of the healing process, the titanium rod will fuse to the jawbone through the natural process of osseointegration, creating a sturdy foundation that allows the implant to function like a real tooth while preventing bone loss in the jaw.

What Makes Someone a Good Dental Implant Candidate?

Dental implants require that patients meet certain criteria in order to be successful. Firstly, the patient will need to be in good oral health. Gum diseases like gingivitis or periodontitis can compromise the implant’s ability to form a solid foundation and lead to its failure. Similarly, the patient will need a sufficient amount of bone mass in their jaw to host the titanium rod. Dental implants need to heal thoroughly, and certain medical conditions like diabetes can compromise the healing process. The patient will need to be in good overall health as well.

How Can I Become a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Luckily for many people who do not meet these criteria, it is possible to become a suitable candidate for dental implants. To become free of gum disease, the patient will need to see a dentist for treatments and practice excellent oral hygiene every day at home. If the patient has insufficient bone mass in their jaw, they may be able to reinforce it through bone grafting treatments. Health conditions like diabetes will have to be managed and brought under control before dental implants can be placed. Tobacco use is the most common culprit behind dental implant failure, so it’s a great idea to quit smoking.

You have no reason to be discouraged about getting dental implants. Consulting with your dentist can set you on the path to becoming a good candidate for the treatment.

About the Practice

Dr. Drew Beaty earned his dental degree at Northwestern University in Chicago and has completed all nine levels of postgraduate education at the prestigious Kois Center for Dental Excellence in Seattle. He takes over one hundred hours of continuing education every year. His office in Federal Way, WA offers general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implant treatments. For more information about becoming a good candidate for dental implants, contact his office online or dial (253) 839-6544.