Dental implants are the ideal way to replace lost teeth because they support lifelike dental restorations that work, look, and feel exactly like the real thing. While patients will have to meet certain criteria to qualify for these remarkable prosthetic appliances, dentists can often address issues that can cause complications so a person can become an excellent candidate for implants later. Here’s a quick look at how dental implants work, what you’ll need to qualify for them, and how your dentist can help you get ready to restore your smile.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants consist of three components, those being:
- Titanium piece: This device is designed to be surgically implanted into the jawbone where it will fuse with its structure through the natural process of osseointegration. This will establish the sturdy foundation implants need to feel and function just like real teeth.
- The abutment piece: This component is placed on top of the titanium piece, and it serves to anchor the restoration in place.
- The restoration: A lifelike crown, bridge, or denture supported by a dental implant can function exactly like real teeth and last much longer than traditional restorations.
Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
A suitable candidate for dental implants will be free from oral infections and have jawbones strong enough to support the devices. Unfortunately, tooth loss deprives the jawbone of the exercise it needs to stay healthy and strong, which causes the bone structure to atrophy and recede. If a patient goes too long without replacing their teeth, their jawbones may become too thin to support dental implants. In cases like these, traditional restorations may be a more suitable replacement option.
How Can I Become a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Luckily, most dentists will be happy to address oral infections with restorative work or gum disease treatments at their offices. If the patient’s jawbones are too thin to support implants, however, an oral health professional may refer them to an appropriate specialist for bone grafts. Reinforcing the jaw in this way has allowed many patients to qualify for dental implants despite advanced atrophy.
The only way to know for sure if you can qualify for dental implants is to have a consultation with your dentist. During this appointment, your oral health provider will be able to design an appropriate treatment plan to restore your smile.
About the Author
Dr. Prakash Gadhiya earned his dental degree at the prestigious New York University College of Dentistry and has extensive experience in the fields of endodontics, prosthodontics, orthodontics, and oral surgery. In addition to dental implant services, his office in Frisco offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. To schedule your dental implant consultation, contact his office online or dial (214) 308-5359.