If you’re missing one or more teeth and would like to restore your smile for aesthetic or health-related reasons, dental implants can be an attractive solution. Unlike dentures, there’s no risk of having them come loose, and they don’t need to be anchored to surrounding teeth in the same way bridges do. It’s no surprise, then, that many people who visit Oral Surgery Associates of Alaska in Anchorage seek this option.

That said, there are some characteristics that make a person an ideal candidate for dental implants. Here are three things you must have to be considered for the procedure:

• Ample Jawbone: If you’ve had a dental-related issue that has caused you to lose bone structure in your jaw, you may not be an ideal candidate for implants. This is because the jaw bone supports the implant structure. Some patients who have experienced bone loss can still receive implants with the help of procedures that rebuild bone. Your oral surgeon will be able to advise you as to whether this is a possibility.
• Healthy Gums: Your gums play a critical role in supporting dental implants. Thus, it’s important that you have strong, healthy gums prior to the procedure.
• Good Oral Hygiene Habits: Implants will fill the spots left by missing teeth, but after your oral surgery, it’s up to you to maintain strong oral hygiene and get the best possible results from the procedure. Brushing and flossing regularly and dental checkups are critical to maintaining both your dental implants and your natural teeth.

If you’d like to discuss your candidacy for dental implants with the professionals at Oral Surgery Associates of Alaska, call (907) 561-1430 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to learn more.