Franklin 
While traditional restorations like dental bridges and dentures have allowed many people to restore their smiles, they can leave a lot to be desired for some patients. Thankfully, dental implants are considered the ideal form of tooth replacement because they look and work just like real teeth. However, they aren’t right for everyone, and a good dental implant candidate will meet certain criteria. Here are some of the attributes of a good dental implant candidate and how you may be able to become one.
A Strong Jaw Is the Foundation
Dental implants are surgically placed directly into the jawbone where they fuse with the surrounding bone structure to create the sturdy hold that allows them to chew with similar force to real teeth. Unfortunately, the bone structure that supports a tooth begins to atrophy and recede due to a lack of exercise soon after the tooth is lost. If you’ve gone a while with missing teeth, your jawbone may be too thin to support an implant.
Fortunately, there are ways to reinforce the jawbone so that it can receive dental implants later. If your dentist says that your jaw isn’t ready to host implants, you may be able to get to that point after receiving bone grafting treatments.
Healthy Gums Support the Implants
Dental implants require healthy gums to be successful. Before you receive dental implants, any oral infections such as gum disease and tooth decay will have to be resolved. This can usually be done through improved oral hygiene and restorative dental treatments from your dentist.
Smoking and other forms of tobacco use are terrible for your oral health and are a leading cause of dental implant failure. You should quit using tobacco for at least a few months before and after dental implant surgery so that your gums can heal without complications. Since you’ll have to kick the habit for that long anyway, it’s a great chance to quit smoking for good.
Proper Oral Hygiene Is Crucial
Taking excellent care of your oral health plays an important role in helping your gums heal properly. To receive dental implants, you’ll need to commit to excellent oral hygiene that includes a daily regimen of brushing, flossing, and antibacterial mouthwash. This will allow you to control the growth of harmful oral bacteria that can cause gum disease, thereby making your implants less likely to fail.
With excellent care, dental implants can last for more than three decades. Consulting with your dentist can help you determine the best way to become an excellent candidate for this treatment.
About the Author
Dr. Donna Franklin-Pitts earned her dental degree at Howard University in Washington, DC, and she stays up to date with the latest developments in dentistry by completing continuing education courses. She is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Smith County Dental Society, and the Texas Dental Association. Her office in Tyler, TX, offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implants. To learn more about how you can become an excellent dental implant candidate, contact her office online or dial (903) 730-6314.