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Think You Can’t Get Dental Implants? Think Again!

Did you know that dental implants work for almost everyone?

Think You Can’t Get Dental Implants

Patients with missing teeth often think implant surgery isn’t an option for them. That’s unfortunate, because implants are considered the gold standard in tooth replacement. In fact, the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) indicates that most patients are good candidates for dental implants — even if they have oral health challenges or concerns.

Gum Disease and Tooth Decay

Are your missing teeth the result of periodontal disease? The AAOMS says that implant surgery is highly successful for patients who have lost teeth due to gum disease or decay.

If you’re battling periodontal disease, we will help you get it under control. Once your gum disease is treated and stabilized, you’ll be able to get those implants.

Bone Loss in the Jaw

Bone loss is quite common for people with missing teeth. When a tooth is lost or extracted, the jawbone begins to degrade because it no longer has the stimulation it needs to remain healthy.

Dental implants require a strong foundation of bone for support. But even if you have bone loss, that doesn’t mean you’ll have to settle for a bridge or dentures. You’ll simply need a bone graft — a quick, in-office procedure — before the oral surgeon places your implant(s).

Existing Medical Conditions

Do you suffer from a chronic disease? Many patients with medical conditions like diabetes, osteoporosis or high blood pressure think implant surgery would be out of the question. But that’s not the case.

Oral surgeons may need to take some precautions for patients with certain conditions. But anyone who is healthy enough for routine dental treatment — such as a tooth extraction or filling — can usually get implants.

Smoking

Smoking does lower the success rate of implant surgery. But implants aren’t out of the question for smokers.

Before placing dental implants, however, your oral surgeon will advise you to quit smoking — at least temporarily — to ensure that you heal correctly after the procedure.

Seniors

Are you ever too old to get implant surgery? No — the success rates of dental implants in older patients are nearly identical to those for younger adults.

You can, however, be too young for implants. For children and teens, implant surgery has to wait until jawbone growth is complete.

Already Wearing Dentures or Bridges

What if you already have replacement teeth? Dental implants fit, feel and function better than bridges and dentures, so you may want an upgrade.

Implants can permanently replace removable bridges and dentures. And with the all-on-four technique, implant surgery can stabilize and secure dentures to make them fit more comfortably.

To learn more about implants, and to explore whether they are the right solution for your missing teeth, schedule a time to consult with Dr. Maxfield or Dr. Partridge. The professional oral surgery team at Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery of Utah, serving the greater Salt Lake City area, specializes in tooth replacement and implant surgery. Contact us today to schedule your consultation for dental implants.

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