Are you among the roughly 178 million Americans missing a tooth? If so, dental implants may be on your radar as a way to restore your smile. Known for their durability and natural appearance, dental implants are a favored option for many. However, several factors might delay your ability to receive them immediately. Let’s delve into four potential concerns that may need addressing before you can move forward with this treatment.
Issue #1. Inadequate Bone Density
Dental implants stand out because they replace not only the visible part of missing teeth but also their roots. This involves a surgical procedure where titanium posts are inserted into the jawbone, gradually bonding with it in a process known as osseointegration over several months. For successful integration, a strong and healthy jawbone is essential.
If you’ve been without teeth for an extended period, your jawbone may have weakened from disuse. To evaluate the health of your jawbone, your dentist will utilize X-rays and might suggest a bone graft to enhance its strength before moving forward with the implant procedure.
Issue #2. Unhealthy Gums
The dental implant procedure starts with your dentist making a small incision in your gums to access the jawbone. However, it’s crucial to resolve any existing issues like gum disease or other oral health concerns beforehand. Failing to address these conditions could result in complications or even the failure of the implant later on.
Issue #3. Bad Oral Hygiene
Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily are key practices for ensuring optimal oral health and preventing potential issues. Although dental implants themselves cannot get cavities like natural teeth, maintaining proper dental hygiene remains essential.
Neglecting your oral care can result in decay in your remaining teeth, which may lead to further tooth loss and jawbone deterioration, potentially requiring additional implants. Additionally, a buildup of harmful bacteria can increase the risk of gum disease, highlighting the importance of consistent oral hygiene.
Issue #4. Use of Tobacco Products
The use of cigarettes and other tobacco products greatly heightens the risk of gum disease, dry mouth, and tooth decay. Additionally, it raises the likelihood of developing oral and various other cancers.
Smoking can also interfere with the integration of dental implants into the jawbone, which may result in implant failure. If you’re considering quitting, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist, therapist, doctor, or healthcare professionals for guidance and resources to help you on your journey.
It’s essential to prioritize your oral health before moving forward with dental implants. By tackling any existing issues highlighted earlier, you set the stage for a successful implant procedure and can look forward to achieving a brighter, healthier smile!
About the Practice
At Dream Dental, we are dedicated to enhancing the smiles of residents in Woodstock and surrounding areas through tailored care. Led by Dr. Haren Patel, our specialty lies in dental implants, offering effective solutions for replacing missing teeth and rejuvenating your smile and confidence. If you’re ready to schedule an appointment or want to learn more about dental implants, you can visit Dream Dental’s website or consider giving our office a call at (770) 592-7000.