Patients with missing teeth can suffer a variety of dental issues. They may feel unsatisfied with their smile’s appearance, have trouble performing oral functions, and see further oral health complications. A dentist can provide tooth replacement treatment, and the most effective treatment option is dental implants.
These fixtures can replace one, several, or an entire arch of missing teeth. But not every patient can benefit from this restorative dental solution. Read on to find three qualities a dentist will look for when checking that a patient qualifies for implant dentistry treatment.
3 Characteristics of Implant Dentistry Candidates
Seeking a Permanent Tooth Replacement Solution
Dental implants use a titanium post anchor, which a dentist surgically places into the jaw. It fuses with the jawbone as it heals, creating a strong, stable, and secure foundation that will support the prosthetic teeth of the implant.
Because of the nature of this support, dentists deem implants to be a permanent tooth replacement treatment. Many people appreciate this because they do not have to worry about appliances slipping out of place at inopportune moments. And the implants will not require extra maintenance to remain clean and functioning.
But some people would prefer the flexibility and comfort of a removable tooth replacement. Discuss your dental needs and restorative goals with your dentist during a consultation to learn if implant dentistry is the best treatment for you.
Possessing Stable and Healthy Jawbone
Dental implants rely on the fusion of anchors with the jawbone to sustain the prosthetic teeth. So the patient in question must possess plenty of healthy and stable bones in their jaw. When a patient loses a tooth, the jawbone will no longer receive stimulation from that tooth’s root. In its absence, the bone can deteriorate, weakening the jaw.
If too much bone has been lost following tooth loss, the patient might not be able to receive a dental implant successfully. The dentist checks the patient’s jawbone health using X-ray imaging before pursuing this treatment.
They may suggest a bone graft or other treatment to build structure in the jaw to make you a better candidate for implant dentistry in this case. Otherwise, you might need to consider alternative tooth replacement treatment.
Exhibiting Patience and Commitment to Implant Dentistry Process
Implant dentistry involves a multi-step process that occurs during three or more dentist appointments over the course of three months or longer. Though this treatment may seem lengthy, the results can last a lifetime. You will not have to worry about replacing prosthetic teeth with implants for twenty years or longer.
The ideal dental implant patient will understand that the restorative benefits will make the treatment process worth any hassle. They will show patience as well as a commitment to their treatment. Learn more about the specifics of your treatment plan as well as whether dental implants will help you restore your smile when you schedule a consultation with your dentist in Nashua, NH, today.