Can Anyone Get Dental Implants?

You may have heard that implants are the next best thing to natural teeth. Implants are one of the most effective oral restoration options, ideal for replacing one or more teeth. They are placed directly into your jawbone to act as naturally as possible and function well with your other teeth. Dental implants can also be used to support crowns or dentures, the same way roots support your natural teeth.

Do You Need a Dental Implant?

There are a few situations in which an implant might be the best option for improving your smile, such as stopping your remaining teeth from moving after an extraction, helping to save your jawbone from weakening, improving your facial appearance and speech, and boosting your overall self-esteem when a tooth is missing.

Implants are a way of improving your appearance as they help maintain your facial structure and appearance. The implant is permanent and looks and feels like your natural teeth.

Implants improve speech and comfort, unlike dentures that can end up sliding around in your mouth and causing you to slur your speech. An implant becomes part of you, thus eliminating the discomfort linked to removable dentures.

Missing one or more teeth can lower your confidence, and an implant will give your smile back, helping you feel and look better. Chewing can be painful with missing teeth, but implants function the same as your teeth, allowing you to eat everything without the pain of exposed gums.

Who Can Get Dental Implants?

Before the procedure is done, the dentist must determine if the patient is a good candidate for an implant. Three things are done: a CT scan, a tissue examination, and then the implant procedure.

A CT scan is done to determine if you have enough bone available in the area needing the implant. If you lack enough bone, the procedure can't be undertaken; however, the specialist can establish a plan to develop more bone for the procedure.

Next is a tissue examination. An implant requires enough quality tissue to surround and protect it from accumulating bacteria while increasing its lifespan. If your gum tissue or jaw bone is weak, you should avoid the procedure.

Who Should Consider a Dental Implant?

Anyone who is healthy enough for routine dental procedures, such as tooth extraction or oral surgery, can be considered for an implant. Healthy gums and adequate bone tissue are the primary considerations for an implant. The patient must also commit to good oral hygiene and regular dental visits.

Who Shouldn't Consider Dental Implants?

Dental implants aren't for everybody, especially if you're a heavy smoker, have health concerns such as heart disease or diabetes, or have had radiation therapy in the head and neck area.

If you're considering dental implants, first talk to your dentist to see if they are right for you.