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One of the most commonly asked questions we get from our Pittsburgh, PA patients is: what makes a good candidate for dental implants? There is no simple answer to this question, but the first step to figuring this out is to schedule a no-obligation consultation with an experienced and qualified dental implant provider. Here is some more detailed information about what types of candidates work best for dental implant placement.
I Am Missing Most Of My Teeth. Will Dental Implants Help?
Dental implants are a great solution for patients who are missing one or more teeth. They are also good for patients that have lost all of the teeth on one arch or even multiple arches. And, as an added benefit, this tooth replacement option helps prevent dental ridges from flattening over time because of bone deterioration. In fact, dental implants are the only tooth replacement treatment that can stop the jawbone deterioration that occurs when patients lose teeth. Dental implants also help restore normal bite strength and allows patients to get back to eating their favorite foods once more.
What Characteristics Make For A Good Dental Implant Candidate?
Besides having a desire to replace missing or damaged teeth, patients who are considering dental implants should have the following characteristics:
1) be willing and able to follow doctor’s orders
2) be free of uncontrolled gum disease
3) have good overall health
4) have a fully developed jawbone
5) have healthy gum tissues
6) practice good oral hygiene habits
7) have proper density in the jawbone to support dental implants
Why Is Good Overall Health Important For Dental Implant Patients?
Unfortunately, there are a few conditions and diseases that can make it harder for patients to be successful with dental implants. Health issues like uncontrolled diabetes, active cancer, alcoholism, smoking, or uncontrolled gum disease can all negatively impact whether dental implants properly fuse to the jawbone. Additional or supplemental steps may be necessary before, during, or after your dental implant placement to increase your chances of success. This also means that it is essential to let your dental implant provider know about your medical history, any prescription medications you are currently taking, and any other health concerns that you currently have or anticipate having in the future. That way you and the dental implants team can appropriately plan for your treatment.
Factors That Can Make Patients Less Desirable For Dental Implant Placement
Less preferred candidates are heavy smokers, diabetics, younger children (because their jawbones are not developed yet), teeth grinders, women who are pregnant, patients with weakened immune systems, patients with chronic illnesses, and patients who are undergoing cancer treatment. This list is not exhaustive and other conditions might also fall into this category. That is why the initial examination and full disclosure of health history by the patient are extremely important.
Is There Anything I Can Do If I Am Not A Good Candidate?
Although it may be very disappointing, being a less preferred patient does not necessarily prevent patients from getting dental implants. It simply means that they will need further evaluation and possible supplemental procedures before dental implants can be placed. So, if you are considering dental implants, put yourself in the best position for success by practicing good oral hygiene and scheduling an appointment for comprehensive evaluation as soon as possible. Call us now to get started.
Preparing For Dental Implant Placement
Because dental implants require a surgical procedure, patients must have a thorough evaluation to prepare. Here are some of the things that will happen as you prepare:
- A comprehensive exam. Patients may have X-rays taken and/or models of teeth and mouth made.
- A treatment plan. This will be tailored to your unique situation, to account for factors like how many teeth you need to have replaced and the condition of your jawbone.
- A review of conditions and medications. Patients should be sure to tell the doctor about medical conditions, medications, conditions, orthopedic implants, or other related subjects. These things may seem inconsequential, but your doctor may prescribe antibiotics before surgery to help prevent infection. This could interact with a previous symptom, medication, or condition, so it is important to share everything with your dental implant provider.
- Discuss anesthesia options. To control discomfort or pain from your surgery, your dental specialist will typically talk to you about which pain control options will work best for you. Your dental implant team will also instruct you about eating and drinking before surgery, depending on what type of anesthesia you have. And finally, if you will be using general anesthesia, you will need to plan to have someone take you home after surgery and stay with you until it has worn off.
See The Dental Implant Professionals At Dugan and Sweeney Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
If after reading about what makes a good candidate and you find that you still have questions about dental implants placement, please check out the rest of our informative website. Then, when you are ready to schedule a consultation, call us for an appointment today. We serve patients in Pittsburgh, Butler, Zelienople, and Greenville, PA. We would love to help you get started with dental implants from the professionals at Dugan and Sweeney Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery.
