Have you been looking into replacing your missing tooth or teeth? If so, you’re probably aware of all the benefits that dental implants have to offer, like allowing you to eat your favorite foods and potentially lasting for a lifetime. But is this treatment right for you? The only way to know for sure is to attend a consultation with your dentist. In the meantime, continue reading to learn four qualities that often indicate that you’re a suitable candidate for dental implants in Issaquah.
1. You Have a Strong Jawbone
In order for dental implants to stay in place, they need to be embedded in the jawbone. This happens naturally over a few months after they’ve been surgically placed. However, if your jawbone has deteriorated (a common side effect of tooth loss), the implants won’t have sufficient support, and they’ll ultimately fail.
Even if you’ve had bone loss in your jaw, you may still be able to get implants if you undergo a bone graft first. By grafting additional bone material onto the area where your natural tooth once was, your dentist can create a foundation strong enough to help your new teeth stand the test of time.
2. Your Gums Are Healthy
Dental implants are even more vulnerable to gum disease than natural teeth. If plaque accumulates and causes a bacterial infection, the gum tissue may separate from the implant, creating pockets where bacteria can easily thrive. From there, the infection might damage the bone holding the implant in place, leading to failure. This is why you should be free of gum disease before beginning the dental implant process.
3. You’re Committed to Good Oral Hygiene Habits
Although dental implants can’t get cavities, oral hygiene is still crucial in preventing gum infections. The ideal dental implant candidate has already developed good oral habits, including brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. Luckily, these habits shouldn’t be very different at all with implants than they are with natural teeth.
4. You Don’t Use Tobacco
Whether you smoke it or chew it, tobacco use can spell disaster for your dental implants. Not only does it increase the risk of gum disease, but it also slows the healing process. It may even prevent your jawbone from properly fusing to the implants, resulting in implant failure. If you currently use tobacco, talk to your dentist or doctor about resources that can help you quit.
These characteristics aren’t the only requirements for getting dental implants, but if you meet all four of them, it’s definitely a positive sign! Reach out to your dentist today and schedule a consultation to learn more about this leading-edge tooth replacement solution and whether it’s right for you.
About the Author
Dr. Ron Sherman has more than 33 years of experience as a dentist in Issaquah, WA. He can complete the entire dental implant process under one roof at First Impressions Dental Care, and you can trust that his gentle chairside manner and conservative approach to treatment will make the experience smooth and comfortable from start to finish. To discover whether you’re a good dental implant candidate, you can contact Dr. Sherman’s office by calling (425) 391-4964.