What Makes a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

For a patient with tooth loss, a dental implant can be life-changing. However, many don’t even take the first step because they don’t know if they can have the surgery at all. While there are certain factors that can make the procedure more difficult, they’re not always a deal-breaker. If you want to learn what your dentist will look for to decide if you’re a good candidate for a dental implant, continue reading.

1. Bone Density

One of the most essential factors for successful dental implants is having adequate bone density in the jaw. This is because the implant post needs a strong foundation to support the artificial tooth securely.

However, even if a patient is lacking the bone support they need, your dentist may perform a bone graft to bulk it up. This procedure takes bone from one part of your body and places it in the desired implant location. This can add several months to your treatment plan, but it’s worth it for peace of mind!

2. Healthy Gums

Equally as important as bone density, healthy gums are vital for the long-term success of dental implants. Gum disease can compromise the stability of implants by eating away at your jawbone over time—leading to implant failure. This is why it’s very important to ensure that any gum infections are treated before undergoing implant surgery.

3. Good Overall Wellness

There are some conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders that can affect the healing process. Because of this, your dentist will evaluate your overall health before undergoing the process. As with the other conditions, your dentist may still be willing to perform the procedure if suitable precautions are taken!

4. A Commitment to Oral Health

Excellent oral hygiene is critical for the longevity of dental implants. Good candidates should be committed to practicing regular oral hygiene habits, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups. With these habits established, your dentist can rest easy knowing that your dental implant will stand the test of time.

As you can see, there are several qualities that combine to create a great dental implant candidate. By taking these considerations to heart and being honest with your dentist, together you can find a path to success. So, don’t delay! The first step to a better smile is picking up your phone and calling for a consultation.

About the Author

Dr. Hiren H. Shah is a friendly and talented dentist with over a thousand hours of advanced training in the skills and technologies for placing accurate dental implants. He graduated from New York University and immediately set to work expanding his skills to better serve his patients through personalized treatment plans. Call (908) 834-8448 to schedule a dental implant consultation at Signature Smiles or visit the website to browse a full menu of other services.