Dental implants are considered the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. They have a wide range of benefits that other options don’t offer, but you may not be eligible for this treatment right away. There are several factors that come into play that may prevent you from getting them at first. Here’s more about the issues that can keep you from a full smile and how your dentist is here to help.
What Issues Can Keep Me from Getting Dental Implants?
Certain problems can spell trouble for implants and affect their longevity. These are notable ones to keep in mind:
- Oral health issues, like gum disease, can be troublesome when left untreated. The bacteria causing them can attack the soft and bone tissue in your mouth, so getting this tooth replacement while having one can make it feel loose or wobbly.
- Poor jawbone density needs to be treated beforehand, as the implant uses a post that relies on your jaw to be a stable foundation. If not, then your results may feel unstable or cause discomfort.
- Certain health conditions, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, can affect your recovery after placement surgery. Your healing may be slowed, so the bacteria in your mouth are more likely to attack the site and lead to failure if they aren’t cleaned off.
- Lifestyle habits, like tobacco usage, can become a problem over time. They can impact your healing and the fusion of the implant to your jawbone.
Is It Still Possible to Get Dental Implants with These Issues?
Although many issues can keep you from getting dental implants, they may still be a possibility with the right treatments! You will have a thorough consultation with your dentist before you can get the placement surgery. Here, they will talk to you about everything above and see if there are any red flags currently present in your smile.
Depending on what they find, you may be able to get preliminary treatments to fix worrying problems. Some people may need a bone graft, while others will have their gum disease managed.
Regardless, taking these steps beforehand can help you become a good candidate. You can have a higher chance of a successful treatment afterward. Then you can feel confident knowing you did the work to help your full smile be strong and stable for years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Rhiannon Presley earned her dental degree from Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry. She is dedicated to helping the Fort Worth community restore their grins with reliable treatments like dental implants. By having a consultation, Dr. Prestly can ensure your mouth is a great foundation for lasting results. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call her office at (817) 242-5564.