Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?

If you’re suffering from tooth loss, dental implants are the most preferred and reliable solution to treat tooth loss. Dental implants are a permanent form of tooth replacement that closely mimics the appearance and function of natural teeth. With a 95 percent success rate, dental implants have quickly risen in popularity as the preferred choice for prosthetic teeth. However, while dental implants are highly successful, the success of the procedure relies on minimal risk factors for implant failure. Although dental implants are right for just about everyone, your dentist will need to determine if dental implants in Savannah are right for you.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants involve surgically placing a bio-compatible titanium post into the jaw bone to act as a new tooth root. The jaw bone naturally accepts the implant post material, forming a strong and secure bond to the post. Then, an abutment is used to anchor a prosthetic crown to the implant post to resolve tooth loss. When performed by board certified surgeons, such as those at Savannah Periodontics, the risks for implant failure are minimal. The number one threat you’ll face is the risk for infection. As a result, your periodontist office for implant placement will need to access your risk factors for implant failure.

Who is a Candidate for Dental Implants?

In order to benefit from dental implants, you must have healthy gums that are free from any sign of infection. You must also practice great oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly to ensure your risk for any infection in minimal. You must also have adequate bone density to support the implant; however, those who have decreased bone density can undergo bone grafting to enhance their bone density. Since the implants are placed into the bone, implants often aren’t placed on young patients who haven’t stopped growing.

With the risk of infection the top threat for implant failure, heavy smokers, alcohol drinker, and substance abusers often aren’t candidates for implants. The use of these substances hinder the body’s ability to fight infections, increasing the risk for infection. In addition, other habits can interfere with the success of implants, such as those who grind their teeth.

Certain medications, medical treatments, and medical conditions may also prevent you from benefiting from dental implants. Those who have had high-dose radiation of the head or neck may not be suitable candidates, as well as those who have certain immune deficiencies. Those who have uncontrolled diabetes, connective tissue diseases, and hemophilia may not be candidates for dental implants. The use of steroids or immune suppressant drugs may cause problems for those interested in implants.

Dental Implants in Savannah

If you fall into any of these categories that place you at a higher risk for implant failure, that doesn’t necessarily mean dental implants aren’t right for you. You may still be able to benefit from dental implants. The only sure way to determine if dental implants are right for you is with a thorough consultation with your periodontist. As board certified surgeons, we’ll help determine if dental implants in Savannah are right for you.