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One of the most commonly asked questions we get from our Birmingham, MI patients is what makes a good dental implants candidate? In the most general terms, patients who are missing teeth and have good oral health are usually good candidates. Here is some more detailed information about what makes a good candidate for implant surgery.
How Do I Know If I Am A Good Candidate For Dental Implants?
We recommend patients get a full examination with one of our doctors before any determination can be made about dental implant candidacy. This examination will allow Dr. Sayed to examine your teeth, mouth, and jawbone to see if dental implants are the right tooth replacement treatment for you.
What Characteristics Make For A Good Dental Implants Candidate?
If you are considering dental implants, you should possess the following characteristics:
1) A fully developed jawbone;
2) Decent overall health;
3) Proper density in the jawbone to support dental implant attachment;
4) Healthy gum tissues;
5) No gum disease or tooth decay treated and under control;
6) Be willing and able to follow doctor’s orders;
7) Have good oral hygiene habits;
Less Preferred Patients For Dental Implants
In our office, each patient is examined on a case by case basis to determine suitability for dental implants. However, some patients are less preferred candidates for dental implants because they have a greater chance of complications or dental implant failure. These patients are:
1) Diabetics;
2) Smokers;
3) Younger children (because their jawbones are not developed yet);
4) Severe teeth grinders or jaw clenchers;
5) Pregnant women;
6) Patients with weakened immune systems or chronic illnesses;
7) Patients with untreated gum disease or tooth decay problems; and,
8) Patients who are undergoing cancer treatment.
If I Am Not A Good Candidate, Is There Anything I Can Do?
Just because you are a less preferred candidate does not mean you cannot get dental implants. It simply means that you will need further evaluation by Dr. Sayed and possible additional procedures. So, if you are considering dental implants, put yourself in the best position for success by practicing good oral hygiene and scheduling an appointment for comprehensive evaluation as soon as possible. If you would like more information about supplemental procedures like bone grafting, please check out our Supplemental Procedures page.
Why Is My Overall Health An Important Factor?
Certain health issues like active cancer, diabetes, tobacco use, alcoholism, or uncontrolled gum disease, can negatively impact how well your dental implants fuse to your jawbone. Accordingly, certain health problems and medications can slow or prevent proper dental implant healing. That is why it is critical that you let your dental implant provider know about your medical history, any medications you are taking, and any other health concerns that you have. This information will help our dental implants team plan your treatment appropriately.
How Can You Get Started?
The first step in the dental implants process is always to find the right implant dentist for your needs and to schedule a consultation. This will allow us to examine your mouth, discuss your options, and allow us to come up with the best plan for your unique needs and budget. X-rays or other tools may also be used to look at your bone tissue, sinuses, and other internal structures. This will also allow us to see if supplemental procedures are necessary.
Questions Are An Important Part Of The Process
If you are considering dental implants, we would encourage you to educate yourself on all that you need to know about dental implants. Part of this process is for you, the patient, to ask as many questions as you need to understand the dental implants process. You will also be provided with a written estimate for the total cost of your procedure. Be sure you read and understand this before you schedule your dental implant placement.
Visit Pristine Periodontics and Implants To Repair Your Smile Today
If you still have questions about what makes a good dental implants candidate, please feel free to check out the rest of our informative dental implants infosite or give us a call. Then, when you are ready to schedule your consultation with Dr. Sayed, call us for an appointment. We would love to help you get started on your journey toward a healthy and functional smile at Pristine Periodontics and Implants.
