Tooth loss can lead to many oral health concerns. You might notice a blow in your confidence with gaps in your smile. You could also see further deterioration in your dental structure and oral function.
If you want to maximize the benefits you receive from tooth replacement from your dentist, you should consider dental implants. These fixtures restore your smile after tooth loss, but not every patient will qualify for this treatment.
Your dentist will evaluate your oral health during a consultation to determine your eligibility for implant dentistry. But they will also discuss the process to learn if the treatment will suit your unique needs. Read on to find three qualities a dentist will look for in their dental implant candidates.
Characteristics of Ideal Dental Implant Patients
Seeking Permanent Tooth Replacement Treatment
Dental implants rely on surgically inserted titanium post anchors that fuse with the jawbone. This creates a solid foundation that supports the prosthetic crown, bridge, or denture.
Due to the nature of this fusion with the bone, dentists consider this tooth replacement solution permanent. And your prosthetic teeth can last for twenty years or longer with proper maintenance.
Many patients appreciate that these long-lasting benefits result in a secure fit and that they do not have to worry about appliances slipping out of place. But others might rather have the flexibility of removable devices over fixed ones. Discuss your preferences and expectations with your restorative dentist at your next appointment.
Possessing Strong and Healthy Jawbone
Because the dental implant relies on the anchors’ fusion with the jawbone, you must retain enough healthy bone in the jaw for this process to occur successfully. When you lose a tooth, the jawbone no longer receives stimulation from the tooth’s root. Then the bone can start to deteriorate without this stimulus.
The anchor of an implant can replace the absent tooth root and prevent jawbone loss. But in order to receive the implant, you should not have lost too much bone in the jaw. Otherwise, it cannot sustain the implant.
A dentist will evaluate your jawbone health before proceeding with this treatment using X-ray imaging. If you have lost too much bone, you might need a bone graft to build structure in the jaw that could ultimately support an implant.
Exhibiting Patience in Dental Implant Process
Implant dentistry involves a multi-step process that will include three or more appointments with your dentist over the course of three months or longer. Some people might feel intimidated by this lengthy treatment, so ideal candidates must be willing to commit to this solution.
They will exhibit patience and focus on the end results that will see full dental restoration, including in appearance, function, and health in the wake of tooth loss. The dentist will let you know details about how long each procedure will take as well as the recovery time you can expect. You will need an initial consult, oral surgery for the anchors, and placement of your prosthetics at a minimum.