An Implant Dentist Talks About Good Candidates for This Procedure

You may be a good candidate for an implant dentistry procedure if you are missing one or more teeth and desire the highest quality (and most natural) restoration possible. This review discusses what an implant dentist looks at when determining if a patient is a good candidate for the procedure.

Who is a good candidate for implant dentistry?

Ideally, implant dentistry patients should have good periodontal health, a desire for a long-term solution, and a willingness to go through a more extensive (and more invasive) treatment process to achieve the best results possible for teeth replacement. The following is a closer look at who makes for an ideal candidate for implant dentistry.

One or more missing teeth

Implant dentists are able to replace one tooth, a section of teeth, or an entire row. For single tooth replacement, the implant dentist can use a single dental implant and a dental crown, which is known as an implant-supported crown. An implant-supported bridge may be necessary for replacing a section of teeth, or an implant-supported complete denture can be used for replacing an entire row.

Healthy jawbone and gums

Implant dentistry patients are also required to have good periodontal health. If there has been a loss of bone inside of the jaw due to periodontal disease or atrophy following the loss of teeth, then a bone graft procedure may be necessary to replace the lost bone before the implants are placed. Implant dentists typically recommend treating periodontal health to improve the health of the gums as well.

A desire for a durable and permanent solution

Individuals seeking teeth replacement may prefer implant dentistry if they want the longest-lasting results possible. Dental implant restorations last much longer than removable dentures and fixed bridges. In fact, it is not uncommon for dental implants to last for more than twenty years when they are properly cared for.

Willing and able to go through minor surgery

The placement of the dental implants requires minor surgery, involving an incision into the gums and drilling small holes into the jawbone to place the implants. While this procedure is safe with minimal risks, it does make the process more invasive and subsequently causes the process to be longer than with alternative options.

Caring for your dental implant restoration

A major benefit of implant dentistry is that patients can care for their restoration the same as they could with natural teeth. Specifically, patients are encouraged by implant dentists to brush, floss, and use mouthwash as directed, make smart dietary choices, and protect teeth from dental trauma or teeth grinding at night.