Dental Implants - Who Is a Good Candidate?

Dental implants can help to restore a smile or help to create one from the start. Many people face limitations within their mouth due to injury or illness. In some cases, deformities can also cause problems. In situations where you have a tooth that needs to be removed or is missing, the use of an implant can be an outstanding solution. It can give you the ability to have a very normal, healthy looking tooth that functions properly.

What Is It?

The use of implants within the mouth is more successful than ever. Dental implants allow the dental care provider to install a tooth into your mouth. The removal of a tooth or the filling of a gap is possible. This structure enters into the jawbone to create a stable platform for a tooth-like top to be placed in the opening. The replacement tooth can be colored to match your existing teeth to create a natural, almost seamless smile. No one needs to know that you have an implant present unless you tell them. It works and looks like a normal tooth.

Who Can Have It?

Dental implants are not available for all patients. Though they work very well for many people, there are certain requirements that must be present in order for the procedure to work properly. For example, the mouth needs to have adequate jawbone in place. The jawbone can be missing due to injury or deformity. In other cases, oral health conditions can cause the jawbone to wear down and become damaged. When that happens, there may not be enough bone left for the implant to be held in place.

In addition, your oral health needs to be good overall. If you have significant gum disease, the risk of infection and problems related to the implant are significantly higher. Therefore, your dental care provider may need to help you to improve any oral health conditions you have in your mouth before you actually have this procedure. The good news is that you generally can reverse conditions like gum disease and gingivitis so that you do not have persistent problems long term.

For many people, that missing tooth or that space in their mouth is embarrassing. It can lead to speech and chewing problems, too. The best way to overcome it may be to use dental implants. Not all people are candidates for this procedure but those that are able to have it will find this is one of the best solutions. It can be a cost effective way of boosting your smile and your self confidence. Talk to your dental care provider about your options. For many people, this procedure is the best way to restore a smile long term.