If you’d like a more modern approach to tooth replacement, dental implants are certainly the restoration for you! Thanks to their unique design, they won’t slip out of place in the middle of a conversation, and you’ll be able to enjoy all of your favorite foods without restriction.
As you might suspect, there are specific qualities you’ll need in order to receive a successful dental implant treatment. Don’t worry, though – even if you don’t have one of these four traits, your dentist might be able to help. Keep reading for more details.
1. Good Oral Health
Oral health conditions like cavities and gum disease can cause dental implant failure, so it’s important to make sure your mouth is ready to support them. Cavities, for example, can spread decay to any remaining natural teeth. If they fall out as a result, your implant could very well become loose. Similarly, gum disease can cause gum recession, weakening the very tissue that helps keep your implants in place.
2. Solid Oral Hygiene Habits
The vast majority of oral health conditions are caused by bacteria buildup. This is why dentists strongly recommend brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing once per day! Consistent hygiene habits like these will mitigate bacteria buildup, significantly decreasing your odds of developing problems like cavities or gum disease. If you want your implants to last, you’ll need to be committed to maintaining clean pearly whites.
3. A Strong Jawbone
What makes dental implants so unique is that they can effectively replace your dental roots. Natural teeth use these roots to stay firmly anchored to your jawbone, and implants use titanium posts. This basically means that in order to remain in place, dental implants need to be surrounded by a certain amount of bone mass. If your jawbone is diminished, your implants could fall out or damage your oral structure.
4. Limit Alcohol and Tobacco Usage
Excessive alcohol consumption and almost any amount of tobacco usage increases your odds of developing gum disease and contributes to bone loss. Drinking and smoking after implant surgery is especially dangerous, as the chemicals slow the healing process and can prevent proper blood clotting. Be sure to be honest with your dentist if you struggle with one or both of these habits!
Personalizing Your Treatment
These four characteristics will promote a successful treatment and long-lasting implants, but you may not need to have all the boxes checked before your consultation. Your dentist can personalize your restoration plan with preliminary treatments. If your oral health isn’t where it needs to be, crowns, fillings, and gum disease therapy can help you hit the mark. A bone graft, meanwhile, can add mass to a thin jawbone and create a firm foundation for your implants.
Even if you don’t meet all of these criteria for a good dental implant candidate, talk to your dentist. This modern replacement option might be more attainable than you think!
About the Practice
At Coombs, Ross & Sourlis Family Dentistry of Rock Hill, we believe the best way to ensure a successful dental implant treatment is to plan carefully. That’s why our dentists partner with local dental implant specialists for placement surgery: to ensure our patients receive the best care possible! If you’re interested in dental implants, give us a call and see how we can personalize your experience. To contact our friendly team, dial 803-324-5301.