Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants

Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants from McCarthy Dentistry in Marietta, OHDental implants are a popular option for people missing one or more teeth. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth, making them an enticing choice for adults needing tooth replacement. Though this option offers many benefits that other teeth replacement options do not, it may not be the right choice for everyone. Let us look at dental implants and what makes someone a good candidate.

Dental implants explained

Different variations exist on dental implants, but the basic construction is the same:

1. A titanium post is implanted into the jaw bone to act as the replacement root.
2. An abutment is attached to the top of the implant post.
3. The dentist covers the abutment with a porcelain crown, completing this tooth replacement option.

A single implant can support one tooth or several teeth. If an entire arch of teeth needs replacing, 4 to 6 implants can support a denture. In addition to being versatile, a key advantage of the dental implant lies in its titanium post. Unlike other tooth replacement options, the post continues stimulating the jawbone, preventing the bone loss that often comes with tooth loss. Also, thanks to the stability of dental implants, the patient does not have to worry about the tooth replacement shifting out of place. Instead, they can talk and chew like they normally would with natural teeth.

Who is a good candidate

There are key characteristics that make someone a good match for dental implants. Here is a closer look at these key characteristics:

Adequate jawbone

A leading requirement for dental implant surgery is adequate jawbone support. A person’s jawbone must be strong and dense enough to support the implant. However, if this is an issue for someone, there are options. A patient can undergo bone grafting surgery or find a style of implant that does not require the same jawbone density.

Good general and dental health

Patients receiving dental implants need to be healthy enough for surgery. In addition, they need healthy gums and surrounding teeth. Any issues with gum disease need to be resolved before beginning this treatment.

Commitment to the process

Getting dental implants is not a quick fix. In most cases, the process can take months. First, it takes several months for the titanium post to integrate into the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. Next, if bone grafting is needed, months can be added to the process. Therefore, it is important for patients to understand that the process can be lengthy and involve multiple procedures.

Good dental hygiene

The patient must have good dental hygiene habits. This includes brushing and flossing and carefully cleaning around any dental work. Peri-implantitis is a gum infection similar to periodontitis that can occur in those with dental implants who do not properly care for their mouths.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants in Marietta, OH

Are you a candidate for dental implants?

Dental implants are an excellent tooth replacement choice for healthy adults with good oral health habits. If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants can help you restore your smile. To learn more about dental implants, contact our team to learn more.

Request an appointment or call McCarthy Dentistry at 740-546-5178 for an appointment in our Marietta office.

Recent Posts

What To Expect During A Dental Implant Procedure: Step-by-Step

A dental implant procedure is a structured, multi-stage process that replaces missing teeth with a stable, long-lasting solution. If you are exploring tooth replacement options, you may be curious about what this process is like from start to finish. Having a thorough understanding of each phase helps set realistic expectations and reduce uncertainty about the…

Dietary Restrictions To Consider With Dental Implants

Seeking a secure, natural-looking way to replace missing teeth often leads individuals to explore dental implants. This modern solution places a titanium post in the jawbone, topped by a lifelike crown, and can offer stability and reliability. However, ensuring that implants heal successfully involves paying close attention to food choices, especially in the days and…

10 Key Facts You Need To Know About Dental Implants

Dental implants provide a long-lasting solution for missing teeth, offering functional and aesthetic benefits. Whether replacing a single tooth or supporting a full arch, dental implants help restore confidence and improve oral health. Understanding the essential facts about this treatment can help patients make informed decisions.Dental implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The…

Recent Posts

An Implant Dentist’s Guide To Proper Oral Hygiene With Dental Implants

An Implant Dentist’s Guide To Proper Oral Hygiene With Dental Implants

An implant dentist is a dental professional who specializes in dental implant care. They can help their patients understand how important it is to keep up with good oral hygiene to extend the longevity of their dental implants. Although implants are strong and not prone to decay, they still need regular care to avoid problems…

How To Prepare For Your First Appointment With An Implant Dentist

How To Prepare For Your First Appointment With An Implant Dentist

Going to an implant dentist for the first time can be exciting but also a bit scary. Dental implants are a long-term solution for missing teeth, helping with function and appearance. You can make your appointment more successful by preparing ahead of time. This preparation allows the dentist to create a personalized treatment plan for…