A missing tooth is a problem that needs to be dealt with quickly. Leaving a gap doesn’t just ruin your smile it could also prove difficult to chew, eat, or even talk. There are a number of ways to replace a lost tooth or teeth but one of the most common procedures is to have a dental implant surgically implanted into the open space. It will allow you to resume normal routines of eating and speaking and they will also look and feel just like the tooth you lost.
But deciding on whether or not to have the procedure relies mainly on you. Most people are good candidates for receiving a dental implant as long as they can meet the following criteria.
Bone Support
Losing a tooth can also compromise the amount of bone available to accommodate the replacement. A dental implant relies on a post that is installed into the jaw and if you have a significant loss of bone mass in the affected area, you may not be able to support a dental implant. That doesn’t necessarily mean you are out of options, some patients will have the jawbone reconstructed so that there is sufficient area in which to anchor the implant.
Potential for Gum Disease
Healthy gums are a vital component to the successful installation of a dental implant. They are necessary for a full recovery from the surgery to ensure that the gum heals around the replacement tooth properly and tightly. If a patient is at risk for gum disease, the surgery may not prove to be successful and the implant could be loose or fall out completely. Infections are another major health risk to having dental implant surgery with gums that are at risk for periodontitis and other forms of gum disease. Your dentist will need to do a full examination of your teeth and gums to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants.
Age of the Patient
Age can be a factor that might prevent some patients from getting the implant surgery. Some children may be too young to have the procedure as their jawbone is still growing and some seniors may have too much bone loss to properly anchor an implant. But while age can be a factor, maintaining proper dental hygiene is far more important. So a candidate of any age must be committed to routine brushing and flossing and regular follow-ups with your dentist after the procedure.
