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Approximately 178 million Americans grapple with tooth loss, but the good news is there are several solutions available to regain a confident smile, and dental implants are one of the top choices. However, not everyone is an ideal candidate for this treatment. To help you determine if dental implants are right for you, read on to learn about five qualities to consider.
#1: Healthy Gums
When plaque builds up along the gumline, it can trigger an infection, creating pockets where harmful bacteria collect. Without prompt treatment, these bacteria may harm the supporting bone, risking implant failure. People with dental implants are at a higher risk of gum disease than those with natural teeth. Thus, it’s crucial to start with healthy gums to ensure the success of dental implants.
#2: Exceptional Oral Hygiene
Maintaining a long-lasting smile, whether with natural teeth or dental implants, demands consistent care. Brushing twice daily, flossing every day, and using mouthwash regularly help remove harmful bacteria, preserving the health of your dental implants just like natural teeth.
#3: A Healthy Jawbone
The fusion of implants with the jawbone, known as osseointegration, is a vital consideration for dental implant suitability. A healthy jawbone is necessary for this integration process. Tooth loss can lead to reduced jawbone stimulation, causing bone loss over time. In instances of substantial bone shrinkage, a bone graft might be required to provide adequate support for dental implants.
#4: Good Lifestyle Choices
To ensure you’re a suitable candidate for dental implants, it’s vital to steer clear of heavy smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Smoking significantly increases the risk of gum disease, doubling it compared to nonsmokers.
Smoking before surgery can also lead to bone loss, which may affect the ease of implant placement. Moreover, excessive alcohol intake and smoking can impede the healing process, with alcohol potentially leading to dry mouth and interfering with blood clotting.
#5: Great Overall Health
Patients considering dental implant surgery may encounter heightened risks of complications if they have chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, or sleep apnea. Those with diabetes are particularly vulnerable to infections, which could raise the risk of implant failure and disrupt osseointegration.
Conditions like sleep apnea and heart disease might also impact the efficacy of anesthesia during the procedure. It’s crucial to disclose any chronic conditions to your dentist before undergoing dental implant surgery to ensure appropriate precautions are taken.
Arrange a consultation with your dentist in Little Rock to evaluate your suitability for dental implants, taking into account the factors outlined earlier. This proactive approach empowers you to make well-informed choices about your overall well-being and move closer to attaining a smile that fills you with confidence!
About the Practice
Residents of Norton Shores and neighboring communities entrust their smiles to the expert care provided by Drs. Ariel and Eric Heisser at Laketown Family Dental. With a commitment to excellence, they lead a dedicated team focused on preserving the beauty of your smile. Specializing in comprehensive oral health solutions for patients of all ages, they offer advanced treatments such as dental implants to rejuvenate your smile and restore its natural brilliance. If you’re interested in learning more about their services or wish to schedule an appointment, reach out to Laketown Family Dental by calling (231) 737-2273 or visiting their website.