Dental implants are a popular and highly effective method of tooth replacement. With implants, you’ll have a permanent, long lasting, natural looking new tooth that functions and feels just like the tooth it’s replacing. If you are a habitual tooth grinder or clencher, consult with an implant dentist to determine if you’re a good candidate for implants.
Are Dental Implants Right for Me?
Almost anyone with missing teeth is a good candidate for dental implants, but there are some issues or conditions that could make it more difficult for your implants to heal properly. If you have any of these issues, your dentist might recommend a different tooth replacement option. Some issues to be aware of include:
- Bone atrophy in the jaws
- Gum disease
- Autoimmune disorders or diabetes
- Treatment for osteoporosis
- Tobacco use
All these can slow or compromise the healing process that is vital to successful implant procedures. Implants require sufficient bone mass to anchor the artificial roots, so it’s important to discuss your options with your implant dentist.
If you have a history of clenching or grinding your teeth, discuss this with your implant dentist. In order to prevent damage to your new teeth, you might need a mouth guard or another form of treatment.
The Implant Procedure
Implants consist of two parts—the artificial root and the prosthetic tooth. The root is made of titanium, which has the unique characteristic of bonding to bone. It’s placed first, then allowed a healing period for the bonding to occur. After the healing period, which usually takes about six weeks, the prosthetic tooth can be added.
If you have an issue with bone mass in your jaw, our implant dentist might recommend bone grafts. Before the implants are placed, the bone grafts must heal. Preliminary treatment might also be required for gum disease, as healthy gums are important for long-term implant success. It’s also very important to maintain your overall oral health to ensure that your new smile will last you many years into the future.
Contact us at the office of Dr. Daggula today to schedule a consultation with our specialist!
