Dental implants replace one or more missing or damaged teeth, thereby restoring your smile and making your mouth more comfortable than traditional bridges or dentures. But not every patient will be a good candidate for an implant procedure. Here’s a closer look at how to tell if this is the right option for you.

You Have Healthy Gums

A dental implant is placed directly into the gums, where it fuses with the jawbone. The gums are crucial to holding the implant in place and supporting it in its position. If you have periodontal disease, there may not be enough healthy gum tissue to secure the implant, and the procedure might not be effective. However, you may still qualify for an implant after first successfully treating any existing periodontal disease.

You Have Strong Bones

The jawbone anchors the implant to the mouth, so, like the gums, the bones of the mouth must be in good shape to best secure the new addition. A dentist will be able to measure your bone density via an X-ray. If there isn't sufficient width and depth for the implant, you could first schedule a bone graft. This simple procedure involves embedding bone from another part of the body—or a bonelike composite material—onto the existing area of the jaw.

You Are in Good Oral Health

While a dental implant is an artificial tooth, it will still require care and upkeep as a natural tooth does. You should be in good general oral health with routine dental care practices in place, including brushing twice a day and flossing at bedtime. After the implant is inserted, you will need to be diligent about looking after the health of your mouth, including quitting smoking until the mouth has healed.

Generally, people with oral cancer who have been given biophosphate medications should avoid implants. Speak with your dentist if this applies to you.

Dr. Pamela Johnson-Darr and her team at Darr Dentistry will help you determine if you’re a candidate for dental implants. Since 1999, they’ve been providing general and cosmetic dentistry services to the Davidson County, NC, region. In addition to implants, they offer routine exams, X-rays, extractions, cleanings, dental crowns, root canals, and much more. Call (336) 475-1614 or visit them online to schedule an appointment today.