Am I A Candidate for Dental Implants?

Are you considering dental implants? Known as the gold standard when it comes to tooth replacement, they are one of the most talked-about options today. 

Dental implants look and feel very similar to natural teeth. They even function like them, too. However, they do require implanting a post within the jaw bone in order to create the proper foundation for the artificial tooth. And, because of this, not everyone is able to move forward with the procedure. 

A Missing Tooth or Teeth

In order to get dental implants, you have to have a missing tooth or teeth — or, you need to have an extraction. Dental implants are artificial tooth replacements that bring restoration to both appearance and functionality. 

You have the option of a single implant for one missing tooth, a dental implant-supported bridge for multiple missing teeth, and implant-supported dentures for an entire arch. 

Good Oral Health and Hygiene

Good oral health is necessary for the success of the implant — especially since you want to minimize the chance of infections. 

If you currently have any oral health issues, your dentist will encourage you to have them taken care of so that you may be a candidate for dental implants. That means addressing any tooth decay, gum disease, etc., and then introducing your implant into a healthy mouth. 

Once dental implants are in place, your dentist will want to have the confidence that you will properly care for them today and in the future. The better you care for them, the longer they will last. Brushing at least twice per day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist every 6 months for a professional cleaning will ensure you have a long-lasting tooth replacement. 

Sufficient Bone Density

Having a healthy jawbone mass is required for getting implants. The reason for this is that the post is implanted into the jaw bone where it will begin to fuse with the bone over time. If there is not enough bone, it won’t be able to securely attach to it. This leads to failed implants. 

If you find that you do not have enough bone density to secure the implant, you do have other options. Your dentist may suggest that you have a bone graft in order to build up the bone itself, giving you the right amount of mass you need to proceed. 

Good Physical Health

Physical health is also important when it comes to dental implants. A good candidate for the procedure will be healthy enough to undergo the dental implant surgery. It can be a bit more invasive than other dental treatments – and being able to have the surgery and heal properly without the risk of infection is important. 

Learn More About Dental Implants

The team at Greer Dental Studio has extensive experience and precision when it comes to dental implants. We have successfully placed many over the years, giving our patients the opportunity for greater oral health, a more confident smile, and an improved quality of life. 

Contact us today at 864-259-2590 to learn more or schedule your appointment. 

Or, feel free to request an appointment online.