Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Portland, OR
Implants provided by Dr. Sheryl Weissman
in Portland, OR at Weissman Dental
 Dental implants have redefined the approach to replacing missing teeth, offering a resilient, aesthetically pleasing solution for dental restoration. But you may be asking yourself, "Am I a candidate for dental implants?" Let's explore the criteria and considerations assessed when determining implant eligibility.
Understanding Dental Implants
Dental implants are titanium rods used to replace a missing tooth root. They are surgically implanted beneath your gums into the jawbone. This titanium rod is a biocompatible prosthetic that allows the jawbone to bond and grow around it, keeping it welded into place. It serves as an anchor for replacement teeth. By fusing with the jawbone, these implants provide stable support for artificial teeth, ensuring a natural look and feel. This implant will go on to receive an artificial crown to simulate a complete tooth, from crown to root. Dental implants bring many benefits to the patient who receives it. Single-tooth implants and multiple-tooth implants cater to distinct dental restoration needs.
Criteria for Dental Implant Candidacy
When patients lose a tooth from dental trauma, tooth decay or an extraction, they are faced with risks of some dental health issues. Replacing the missing tooth eliminates the chances of these risks. Among the many tooth replacement options, dental implants present as one of the most efficient and versatile replacement options. Although, patients who may want a dental implant will need to meet some medical requirements to be considered as candidates. Our professionals will check the implant eligibility of any patient by assessing the following.
Optimum General and Oral Health
Patients who want dental implants have to be in good general health. Since this requires a surgical procedure, they should not have any underlying health issues which may complicate the implant placement procedure. Certain chronic illnesses, like diabetes or heart disease, may influence eligibility, requiring a health assessment.
Also, patients should have good oral hygiene. Patients who care for their oral health have higher rates of successful post implant care.
Sufficient Bone Density
Sufficient jawbone density is essential for implant support as dental implants go directly into the jawbone. The dental implant will fuse with the jawbone to hold it securely. For this process to be successful, the patient needs to have an adequate jawbone. When patients lose teeth, the stimulation they provide for the jaw to keep its density is lost. Over time, the jawbone begins to resorb into itself, losing its shape and density. This makes it difficult for a dental implant to be successfully placed.
Patients who have depleted bone density may have to undergo a supplementary procedure called bone grafting to replace missing bone.
Lifestyle Factors
Smoking can impact implant healing and success rates, warranting discussion with the dentist. You may be asked to quit smoking, at least temporarily, as smoking greatly slows the healing process.
Healthy Gums
Our professionals will ensure that patients who need dental implants have healthy gums. Patients suffering from gum disease may have to wait until their periodontal disease is treated, or else they run the risk of causing serious infection to their oral health. When the jawbone is exposed to gum disease, the chances of infecting the bone are very high. Infected jawbone will further cascade to general health issues, as well as possible implant failure.
How To Raise Your Chances Of Candidacy
While age is never a restriction to receiving dental implants, patients need to be grown adults to receive implants. This way, we are certain that the jawbone has stopped growing. Patients who need dental implants must avoid harmful habits such as consuming alcohol or smoking. These habits slow down the healing process. Also, patients under certain medications or are exposed to radiation will have to wait until their treatment is over, before receiving dental implants.
Benefits of Single Tooth Implants
Single tooth implants provide a targeted replacement. They are ideal for patients missing one tooth due to various reasons, including accidents or decay.
Engineered for their longevity, potentially even lasting a lifetime, single tooth dental implants offer durability and a cost-effective long-term option.
Single tooth dental implants are custom-made to blend in naturally with your own existing teeth, enhancing your aesthetics and smile.
Advantages of Multiple Tooth Implants
Multiple tooth implants offer a replacement solution for multiple missing teeth. They provide a stable, aesthetic option for patients missing several teeth. They offer enhanced comfort and convenience compared to traditional dentures.
Multiple tooth dental implants improve your oral health. These restorations prevent bone loss and maintain facial structure integrity, supporting oral health and a youthful appearance.
Another advantage of dental implants is the enhanced comfort and function they provide. Fixed in place for stability, they enable improved comfort and facilitate the opportunity for a wider range of food enjoyment.
Designed to last a lifetime with proper care, multiple tooth implants ensure a reliable, long-term solution for tooth loss.
Consultation and Planning Your Dental Implant Surgery
You will begin your smile restoration journey with a comprehensive consultation at Weissman Dental. Our experienced dentist will conduct a thorough oral examination and review your medical history to determine the suitability of dental implants for your dental health needs and budget.
We will then craft a personalized treatment plan to meet your specific requirements, outlining necessary steps and timelines for clarity and preparedness.
Using advanced imaging techniques and utilizing cutting-edge imaging technology, we will assess your bone structure to ensure precise planning and implant placement.
Understanding the Dental Surgery and What to Expect
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Anesthesia and Sedation: We will discuss options for comfort during the procedure.
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Post-operative Care: We will provide instructions for proper care after implant placement.
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Follow-up Appointments: We will let you know when to schedule necessary follow-ups for monitoring and maintenance. |
Dental implants offer an innovative solution for smile restoration, supported by customizable options and advanced technology. The journey toward reclaiming your smile promises seamlessness and fulfillment, surpassing patient expectations.
Ready to Transform Your Smile?
If you're considering dental implants, reach out to Weissman Dental today. Our professionals are always happy to help out with your questions about candidacy. From initial consultation to final placement, our team is dedicated to providing exceptional care. Call us at (503) 274-2222 to begin your smile restoration journey with dental implants. |
