If you are having dental issues that may result in tooth loss in the near future or currently have missing teeth, dental implants are your best option for a new smile. The best way to find out for sure is to see an oral surgeon for an evaluation, but if you are interested in getting a general idea of whether or not dental implants may be right for you before taking that step, below are key questions to ask.
Are You Healthy?
You do not have to be in perfect health to get dental implants, but there are some diseases and health conditions that can present a problem. Poorly controlled diabetes or uncontrolled hypertension can make a person a poor candidate, as can active periodontal disease.
People with hemophilia, osteoporosis or significantly impaired immune system function may be poor candidates, and dental implant restoration may not be the best option for patients who have serious teeth grinding or clenching issues. In general, if you are healthy enough for routine dental procedures, you can probably get dental implants.
Has Your Dentist Mentioned Bone Loss?
The quantity and quality of the bone in your jaw is an important factor in successful dental implant placement. While in many cases, a skilled oral surgeon can augment bone with grafting procedures or use specialized implants and surgical techniques to make implants possible with some bone loss, substantial bone loss or poor bone density can disqualify some patients.
Are You The Right Age?
If you are old enough that your jaw has finished growing, you are the right age. People well into their 90’s are getting dental implants and have had great success with them, eating, speaking and smiling with renewed confidence.
Are You Living With Ill-Fitting Restorations?
If a current dental restoration has not met your expectations in terms of oral health, function and comfort, you are sure to find living with dental implants a more pleasant experience. Not only do they look feel and function like natural teeth, but they are anchored solidly in the jawbone, eliminating gum-irritating and embarrassing instability.
Schedule A Consultation
Now that you have the answers to key questions regarding dental implants, we are sure that you have discovered that you are probably a good candidate. Most people are thanks to the many advances made in implant dentistry over the past 20 years. To learn more, contact Prestige Oral Surgery at 732-297-7000.
