Ask a Dentist: Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental Implants Brentwood, CA

If you are missing at least one or more teeth, you may qualify as a candidate for dental implants. Dental implants are the best option for replacing missing teeth. Having missing teeth can harm your oral health, and untreated tooth loss can interrupt your chewing ability and even affect the structure of your mouth. If you are unsure if you are a suitable candidate, let's look at the requirements.

5 things to look for in a good implant candidate

As a general rule, some characteristics make a person a good candidate for dental implants. Here are some of those factors: 

  • Good oral health. Gums and teeth should be in good oral health
  • Good bone density. You should have a strong bone density to support the dental implants
  • Good oral hygiene. You should have a good regimen of good oral hygiene
  • Nonsmoker or quitting smoking
  • Having patience to trust the process. The process from start to finish can take up to 12 months to be fully healed

Why do you have missing teeth?

Your dentist or oral surgeon will want to learn more about why your teeth are missing. If your gums show signs of gum disease, this may disqualify you for implant placement until it is healed. If you do not have good oral hygiene habits such as brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash at least two times daily, this may disqualify you.

Jaw and bone health is important

Having good bone density and support is important for being a good candidate for dental implants. Having a good bone structure can help to support the implant once it is placed. If the implant is not supported or reinforced by a strong bone structure, it can become loose over time just from chewing.

Multiple implant placements

When you must have multiple implants placed, your dentist may discuss further options with you should as implanted supported bridges. These bridges can help support and preserve the bone in your mouth because they will replace the natural tooth roots. They fuse with the jawbone, which can help to keep your jaw's natural bone structure intact and healthy.

When you have several teeth missing, you do not have to get individual implants placed. This is where the dental bridge comes in handy. IT helps to fill in the tooth gaps by using a bridge across the implants. This can help to improve chewing and your smile with fewer implants. It's cost-effective and secure.

Basics of a dental implant

Dental implants are titanium screws that are inserted into your jawbone to help replace a missing tooth root. It's not a complicated process. It will require many months to heal after the procedure and begin to bond with the bone in your jaw. After it is healed, a smaller metal post called an abutment would be connected to the implant. This will allow the implant to help hold any replacement teeth securely.

Now that you understand the basics of dental implants and what qualifies you as a good candidate for them, it may be time to consider this option for replacement teeth.

Request an appointment here: https://lonetreedentistry.com or call Lone Tree Dentistry at (925) 301-4286 for an appointment in our Brentwood office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants in Brentwood, CA.

Recent Posts

Multiple Dental Implants Vs. Dental Bridge

Dental implants are a great way to replace multiple missing teeth. A dental bridge is also a solution for multiple teeth replacement in many cases as well. By learning more about the pros and cons of each option, it will help you decide which treatment option is right for you. Missing teeth create a cosmetic, functional…

4 Myths About Dental Implants

Your smile is the first thing people notice about you, and dental implants may be the answer to you gaining back your confidence. When you experience tooth loss, getting your smile back is a high priority. Many people want to consider the possibility of implants, but unfortunately, they stop short of getting it done because…

Dental Implants: A Solution For Missing Teeth

One of the best solutions for replacing missing teeth is dental implants. General dentists recommend them to patients who have missing teeth or teeth that are severely decayed. Dental implants offer many benefits that other tooth replacement options do not, which is why they are worth considering. Want to know more about dental implants and how…

Learn About An Implant Dental Restoration

An implant dental restoration is a popular choice for restoring, renewing and replacing teeth that are severely decayed or even completely missing. Implants, along with other dental restorations are known to produce great results for patients hoping to achieve a better smile and improved oral health. Ready to find out more?Keep reading to learn more…

Recent Posts

Reasons To Visit A Dental Office For Dentures

Reasons To Visit A Dental Office For Dentures

Are you considering dentures to replace your missing teeth? Dentures are oral appliances that act as artificial teeth for those who are missing teeth, whether on the top, on the bottom, or on both arches. Dentures were once loose, bulky pieces that would slide around in the mouth when eating, speaking, or even smiling. Additionally,…

CEREC Single Visit Dentistry &#    ; No Need For A Return Dental Visit

CEREC Single Visit Dentistry -- No Need For A Return Dental Visit

CEREC® crowns are revolutionizing dentistry. Patients no longer need multiple visits to get a dental crown. Instead, these crowns can be made directly in the dental office on the same day, saving precious time.Not only are these restorations convenient, but they are also aesthetically pleasing. The crowns are made from tooth-colored ceramic, and there are…