Are Dental Implants Right for You?

Tooth loss is a common problem in many populations. Poor dental hygiene and dental injuries are common causes of this serious issue. Restorative treatments can help bring back the health of your teeth and gums. Dental implants are the gold standard of dental restorations. Knowing if implants are for you can help prepare you for your procedure. Here are the details that you should consider.
 

The Ideal Candidates

The American Academy of Implant Dentistry says that dental implants are not for everyone. You must meet specific requirements before you get the treatment. A consultation with your dentist can help determine if dental implants are suitable for your needs.

A thorough dental assessment can help your dentist see if dental implants are a good fit for you. Digital imaging and a physical dental examination can show how healthy your gums and teeth are inside and out. The dentist will also ask probing questions about your health history and dental care habits.
 

Good Bone Density

A jawbone with enough density is one of the most important requirements for dental implant surgery. The thickness can help anchor the dental implants. Jawbone loss can make these restorations unstable. Even so, a bone graft can help rebuild the thinning areas of the jawbone. This could delay the implant procedure, but it can help give the implants a stable foundation.
 

Healthy Gum Tissue

An individual with gum disease will have difficulty going through the healing process. Gum disease is a condition in which the gums have a significant level of infection and damage. The dental implants will become unstable. They will likely fail because of weak gum and jawbone support. It will be easier to work on healthy gums, especially if it involves dental implants. Healing and recovery will be faster with disease-free gums.
 

Good Oral Care

The individual must practice good dental care. Proper oral care practices are necessary for gaining good oral health. It can also help in the proper healing and integration of dental implants. It will be easier for you to care for your oral health after the procedure. Flossing and brushing every day can help keep food particles and bacteria away from the implants. Using antibacterial mouthwash can rinse out any remaining particles and plaque.
 

Mild Bruxism

People who grind their teeth or clench their jaws have a high risk of putting excessive pressure on dental implants. This could lead to dental implant failure. The dentist can provide custom nightguards for these patients. These dental appliances can protect dental implants and prevent them from failing.
 

No Alcohol or Tobacco Use

Studies show that alcohol and tobacco use can prevent proper tissue healing. These substances impair proper blood oxygenation and circulation. This inhibits the delivery of nutrients toward the implant areas. Your implants may succeed if you do not consume these substances.
 

Dental implants are right for you if you have the commitment to care for and maintain them. At Glacier Dental, we always guide our patients before, during, and after their dental procedures or treatments. Feel free to visit our clinic in Anchorage, Alaska, for an in-person consultation. Call us at 907-222-6000 to set an appointment or ask more questions about our dental implant packages.