Who Should Consider Getting Dental Implants?
The decision to replace a missing tooth may appear insignificant, yet it’s one of the most important decisions for a person's oral health.
Dental implants have transformed the world of dentistry by providing long-term treatment for missing teeth, and they have become a popular choice for many dental patients. However, implants don’t provide a one-size-fits-all solution.
Understanding who may benefit from dental implants is essential for anyone considering them. To help you get started, we look at the features and situations that make implants suitable for certain individuals.
Basics of Dental Implants
To determine who can benefit from dental implants, we must first describe them.
Dental implants are metal posts or frames surgically inserted into the jawbone beneath the gums. Once in place, your dentist can attach replacement teeth to them.
The technique begins with placing an implant or artificial root within the jawbone. Over the next 3-6 months, the implant fuses with the bone tissue in a process known as osseointegration.
Following the healing phase, your dentist connects an abutment (a support post) to the implant, which can then be fitted with a custom-made crown (the tooth-like element of the implant).
Dental Implants Improve Long-Term Oral Health
A lost tooth could negatively impact your oral health. Dental implants contribute to the jawbone's structural integrity. Without a tooth root, the bone may degenerate, leading to additional oral health complications. Implants give a solid foundation for replacement teeth, protecting bone and avoiding future dental health issues.
If You Want a Permanent and Natural Look
Compared to other tooth replacement methods, dental implants can produce the most natural-looking and long-lasting results. They feel and function like natural teeth, so you can chew, smile, and speak with confidence.
Financial Considerations
While dental implants may be more expensive at first, they can eventually become a cost-effective solution. Other solutions, such as dental bridges, may need to be replaced every 5-10 years, but implants, can last a lifetime if properly cared for.
Who Should Consider Dental Implants?
Adult Patients with Good Oral Health
The optimal candidate for a dental implant is an adult with good overall health and oral hygiene habits. This includes healthy gums, and having adequate bone density to sustain the implant.
Patients Missing One or More Teeth
Whether you’re missing one or more teeth, dental implants may be a suitable option. They can replace individual teeth without harming adjacent teeth.
People with Denture Relining or Repair Issues
Implants can be used to hold a complete or partial denture, allowing for easier chewing and speaking. This can be helpful to people who struggle with ill-fitting dentures.
Those with Fully Developed Jawbone
Patients with completely formed jawbones have the best chance of success with dental implants. Those who consider implants while their jaw is still developing may not be the best candidates due to the possibility of implant instability.
Those Willing to Commit to the Process
The process of having a dental implant can be lengthy, with recovery intervals in between procedures. Patients must be willing to commit to the process, which could take months to complete.
Who May Not Be Ideal Candidate for Implants?
People with Poor Oral Hygiene
Patients who don’t maintain proper oral hygiene may not be ideal candidates for dental implants. For the implant to be successful, healthy gums and a bone structure capable of supporting it are required.
Smokers
Tobacco usage in any form can jeopardize the success of dental implants. It can impede the healing process following surgery, increasing the likelihood of implant failure.
Patients Having Specific Medical Conditions
Some medical disorders and drugs can have an impact on the healing process or the implant's ability to integrate with the bone. Cancer, uncontrolled diabetes, and jaw radiation all have the potential to compromise the success of dental implant surgery.
Individuals with Insufficient Bone Support
People with limited bone support may not be the best candidates for dental implants. A bone transplant procedure can sometimes address this problem.
The Consultation Process
A certified dental specialist can examine your current dental health, review your medical history, and discuss your needs and expectations.
This process may include an examination using X-rays, 3D scans, and tooth models. Consider it an opportunity to ask questions, learn about the surgery, and decide whether dental implants are right for you.
Speak to a Dentist in Manitoba, MB About Dental Implants
Dental implants can be a life-changing treatment option for those with missing teeth. To qualify for the procedure, you must be in good oral health, committed to the process, and have a fully formed jawbone.
Dental implants, with proper supervision and care, can provide a long-term and natural-looking solution to the problems caused by missing teeth.
Remember that your dental health is unique and so is the path to a healthier, happier smile. Speak with a dental professional in Winnipeg, MB who can provide specialized advice based on your circumstances.
Dr. Tom Swanlund and the Aqua Dental Wellness Team have been delivering dental care to Winnipeg residents for over 30 years. We’re dedicated to helping you achieve better life quality through healthier smiles. Call us today to schedule your visit.