Are you missing one or more teeth? If so, then you are probably looking for a way to replace them. In recent years, Dental Implants have become the first choice for both patients and dentists when it comes to replacing missing teeth. Implants are a permanent solution that are easy to care for and feel very much like natural teeth. Not everyone is a candidate for implants, however. There are several things a dentist looks for when determining if a patient can successfully have implant surgery.
Enough Jaw Bone
As soon as a tooth falls out, the body begins to change. Over time, the teeth around the missing tooth may shift to fill in the gap. The jaw bone will also begin to erode. This is why many people without teeth have a sunken appearance around their mouth. In order for implants to be successful, there needs to be enough remaining jaw bone. During the initial implant surgery, a post is inserted into the jaw. If there is not enough bone left, the post will not adhere properly, and the implant will fail.
Healthy Gum Tissue
Gum disease is one of the most common reasons for tooth loss. Unfortunately, if the gum tissue is still inflamed and diseased, it may pose a problem if the patient wants Dental Implants. The gum tissue is responsible for holding the tooth in place. If the gums recede, the implant may become loose. Patients who have gum disease need to treat it before considering implants.
Strong Immune System
Anytime something foreign is introduced into the body, the immune system will be activated. If the patient has an allergy to a material in the implant, the body may reject it. However, if the immune system is weakened due to illness or certain medications, it may also pose a problem. The immune system needs to be strong enough to fight off any infection that may appear around the implant. Discuss your health history with your dentist before getting implants.
If you are considering implants as a way to replace missing teeth, be sure to consult with a dentist to make sure you are an ideal candidate for the procedure.
