A Good Dental Implant Candidate Has These Characteristics

If you’re one of the 178 million Americans who are missing at least one tooth, you may be looking for the best way to restore your smile. Even though there are many different options out there, dental implants have become a preferred method by patients and dentists alike. However, implants aren’t for everyone. Here are some basic criteria that can help you determine whether or not you would make a good dental implant candidate in Bristol.

Good Oral Hygiene

You need to be committed to dental health in order for your implants to succeed. If you aren’t maintaining a good oral hygiene routine now, who’s to say that you will after you have your implant placement procedure. Just like natural teeth, dental implants need to be brushed twice and flossed once daily. Mouthwash also helps to fight against harmful bacteria in the mouth that could compromise the surrounding teeth and gums.

Healthy Gums

Dental implants are more vulnerable to gingivitis than natural teeth are. When plaque builds up, it can create an infection causing the gum to detach from the implant. This creates pockets where harmful bacteria will collect. Eventually, gum disease can produce bacteria that may attack the jawbone which supports your implants. This can cause a dental implant failure.

Sufficient Jawbone

In order for implants to be successful, they need to be firmly anchored into the jawbone. This happens through a process called osseointegration. However, when the jawbone weakens over time as a result of tooth loss, it can shrink to the point where it can no longer support a dental implant. At this point you may need bone grafting or to consider another tooth replacement option.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices

When you’re getting dental implants, you should avoid smoking or drinking excessively. Smoking can increase your risk for developing gum disease and slows the healing process. If you smoke before surgery, this can contribute to bone loss and make it more difficult for the implants to be placed. Drinking too much alcohol can interfere with healing after dental implant surgery. It causes dry mouth and inhibits the clotting of blood.

Good Overall Health

Some chronic disease can create risks for patients who get dental implants. If you have diabetes, there is a higher probability of a dental implant failure. This is because it contributes to gum disease, tooth decay, and interferes with the osteointegration process. Other conditions like heart disease and sleep apnea can interfere with anesthesia.

If you can check these five characteristics off your checklist, chances are that you would make a good dental implant candidate in Bristol. Talk to your dentist to further determine if this would be the best choice to restore your smile!

About the Author

Dr. Ross Katkowski earned his Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and continues to further his education with seminars at Spear Education in Scottsdale and continuing education courses organized by the Connecticut State Dental Association (CSDA). He is a member of the American Dental Association, CSDA, and the Bristol Dental Society. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Katkowski, visit his website or call (860) 589-2794.