How Can I Tell if Dental Implants Are Right for Me?

If you have lost a tooth or are struggling with severely damaged teeth, there are several smile restoration treatments you can try. One of the best restorative options to consider is dental implants, which are artificial tooth roots that provide a permanent base for fixed, replacement teeth. Implants are quickly becoming the new standard in tooth replacement procedures because they fit, feel, and function like natural teeth. 

What makes dental implants the superior tooth replacement option? Orthodontists use a medical-grade titanium implant fixture that fuses implants to the living bone cells of the jaw. Dental implants don’t come with the hassles associated with dentures, which can suddenly slide around the mouth. Instead, implants form a robust and durable anchor for your teeth, so you won’t have to worry about your implants falling out. With all the benefits that come with dental implants, you may be wondering if they’re right for you. Continue reading to find out if you qualify for dental implants. 

Determining Eligibility for Dental Implants

Dental implants are universally considered to be the gold standard solution for tooth replacement, but this doesn’t mean they’re right for everyone. Before you ask your orthodontist for dental implants, you must factor in your lifestyle and age. For instance, people who over the age of 50 aren’t may not be the right candidate for dental implants because implants might damage their fragile gums. If you’re around this age, it’s best to go with dentures because they’re a softer option. 

To qualify for dental implants treatment, you must have excellent physical and oral health. People who live with gum disease and gum recession shouldn’t consider dental implants because the implants will further harm their gums. Patients who have diabetes or other conditions that affect their ability to heal properly after surgery may not receive dental implants. 

You must also have a healthy jaw bone to be able to support dental implants. An orthodontist will create a detailed, 3-D image of your oral anatomy to determine if your jaw bone can handle the procedure. Unfortunately, if you have a small or shallow jaw bone, you won’t be able to adjust to dental implants. However, you may be eligible for bone grafting surgery, which is a procedure designed to supplement the bone mass of a patient’s jaw so the dental implants can be anchored firmly. 

Health Concerns that Don’t Affect Implants

Although dentists and orthodontists shouldn’t recommend implants in certain situations, even individuals who live with the following health concerns may qualify for implant surgery:

Bone loss: Loss of bone tissue is common for individuals who have missing teeth or periodontal disease; however, if the damage isn’t too severe, dental implants can successfully attach to the remaining bone. 

High blood pressure: If you have high blood pressure and are interested in implants, you may be eligible. You’ll have to take extra precautions and schedule frequent dentist appointments, but you’ll be able to live with dental implants successfully. 

Ultimately, it’s up to an orthodontist to determine if you qualify for dental implants. The board-certified surgeons at Oral & Facial Surgery of Utah can provide you with an examination and review your dental history to determine if you’re a candidate for this procedure. Schedule your consultation with us today.