Compared to conventional dentures that rest on top of your gums, dental implants will never slip. This makes them perfect for patients who are looking for a tooth replacement option that looks and feels natural. If you’re interested in replacing missing teeth, we recommend scheduling an appointment with our dental implant dentist in South Bend, IN.
In general, most people who have experienced tooth loss are candidates for the dental implant procedure. However, there are certain qualities we look for when determining someone’s eligibility for dental implants.
Tooth Loss
Dental implants are a great option for restoring your smile, whether you’ve lost one tooth or have several missing teeth. Unlike dentures, dental implants are embedded in the jawbone. This gives you the ultimate stability as you eat, talk, smile, and laugh.
Another benefit of dental implants is that they prevent bone loss in the jaw. This is because a dental implant is a prosthetic tooth root that exerts pressure on the jaw like the real thing. This tricks the body into thinking the tooth is still there and that the bone surrounding the empty socket is still in use. Dental implants help you maintain a healthy bone density in your jaw over time.
Related: Should I Get Dental Implants or Dentures?
Sufficient Bone Density in the Jaw
As soon as you lose a tooth, your body will start to absorb the minerals in your jaw to use elsewhere. If left untreated, this jawbone deterioration can lead to a condition called facial collapse. As the name suggests, this condition can alter the shape of your face so it appears more sunken. Facial collapse can also make it difficult or uncomfortable to continue wearing dentures. For this reason, many patients make the switch from dentures to dental implants.
In order for us to place the dental implants in your jaw, you’ll need sufficient bone density. However, it’s not a requirement to be a candidate for dental implant surgery. If you don’t have enough bone density in your jaw, Dr. Gasko will recommend that you receive a bone graft to supplement the bone tissue you already have. Once the bone graft has healed, you’ll be ready for us to place the dental implants.
Non Smoker
In general, people who smoke are not good candidates for dental implants. This is because smoking inhibits the body’s natural healing ability, especially after dental implant surgery. Smoking also has a negative effect on your dental health and overall wellbeing.
Healthy Teeth and Gums
With proper care and good oral hygiene, your tooth implants can last for decades. However, this is dependent on the patient maintaining healthy teeth and gums after the dental implant procedure. The healthier your smile, the longer dental implants are likely to last. For this reason, you’re more likely to be a candidate for dental implants if you have relatively good oral health.
A Desire to Improve Dental Health
Above all, the patient must be motivated to improve the health and appearance of their smile. In general, dental implant treatment takes several months and is a financial commitment. For this reason, it’s best that you schedule a consultation with Dr. Gasko to determine if the dental implant procedure is right for you.
If you’re motivated to greatly improve your oral health, confidence, and quality of life, there’s never been a better time to book a dental implant consultation. Our dental implant dentist is ready to answer your questions!
Schedule a Dental Implant Consultation
Dr. Michael Gasko is a reputable dental implant dentist in South Bend, IN. He’s also accepting new patients and would be more than happy to welcome you to our practice. To schedule a dental implant consultation, please call Select Dental Associates at (574) 213-7478. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.