Are you missing one or more of your teeth? If so, you aren’t alone. Tooth loss affects approximately 178 million Americans, but there are effective solutions to restore your smile and confidence, with dental implants being a top choice. However, dental implants might not be the right solution for everyone. To determine if they are the best option for you, consider these five important factors before making a decision.
#1: Healthy Gums
Plaque buildup along the gumline can lead to infections and create pockets for harmful bacteria. If untreated, these bacteria can damage the bone supporting dental implants and cause them to fail. Since people with implants are more prone to gum disease, keeping your gums healthy is essential for implant success.
#2: Exceptional Oral Hygiene
To keep your smile looking great, whether you have natural teeth or dental implants, consistent oral care is essential. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use mouthwash regularly. These habits help remove harmful bacteria and ensure the health of your dental implants, just as they do for your natural teeth.
#3: A Healthy Jawbone
For dental implants to succeed, they must securely integrate with the jawbone through a process known as osseointegration. A healthy jawbone is crucial for this process. When teeth are lost, the lack of stimulation can lead to gradual bone loss. If there is significant bone loss, a bone graft may be needed to ensure there is enough support for the implants.
#4: Good Lifestyle Choices
To be a good candidate for dental implants, avoid heavy smoking and excessive alcohol use. Smoking can cause gum disease and bone loss, making implants harder to place. Alcohol can lead to dry mouth and affect healing by interfering with blood clotting.
#5: Great Overall Health
If you’re considering dental implants and have chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or sleep apnea, it’s important to be aware of potential complications. Diabetes can increase the risk of infections, which might lead to implant failure. Heart disease and sleep apnea can affect the safety and effectiveness of anesthesia. Be sure to inform your dentist about any chronic health issues before surgery so they can take the necessary precautions for a successful outcome.
Schedule a consultation with your Little Rock dentist to assess if dental implants are right for you, considering the key factors discussed. This proactive step will help you make informed choices about your oral health and bring you closer to a confident, beautiful smile!
About the Practice
At Crovatto & Edwards Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to maintaining and enhancing your smile with top-quality care. Our team focuses on providing personalized dental treatments for all ages, including advanced options like dental implants to restore your natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in learning more about our implant services or you want to schedule an appointment with our talented team, you can visit the Crovatto & Edwards Family Dentistry website or call us at (904) 272-0800.