Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Missing teeth are a problem.

Their absence not only creates an aesthetic concern, but more significantly, missing teeth introduce a number of health risks, including the loss of jawbone density and a greater risk of gum disease and infection.

The obvious conclusion is that you should replace any missing teeth, and the gold standard for tooth replacement is a dental implant. An implant is a titanium screw placed in your jawbone and topped with a dental crown to look and function just like your natural teeth.

Unfortunately, not everyone looking to replace missing teeth is a good candidate for dental implants.

Our providers at Smile Design Manhattan in New York City are experts in implants; based on experience, here are a few signs that help us determine whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants.

Healthy jawbone and gums

For an implant to succeed, you must have enough jawbone of sufficient density to support the implant. If your jawbone isn’t dense enough, a bone graft can sometimes augment the bone. 

Also, your gums must be healthy and free of disease. Gums that are receding or infected may not be able to support an implant. 

Good oral hygiene

The better you take care of your mouth, the more likely you are to have a successful implant procedure. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss at least once a day, and visit your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning and a chance for us to identify problems early.

If you lack good dental habits, an infection is more likely to wreak havoc with your implants.

Good lifestyle choices

If you smoke or use tobacco products, you increase your risk of the implant not fusing correctly with your jawbone.

Excessive alcohol intake has also been linked to interference with the bone formation around the implant. Also, it slows down the healing process after the implant surgery and weakens your body’s ability to fight off infections.

Not reliant on medications

Certain medications can undermine your fitness for implants. These include corticosteroids, bisphosphonates, antidepressants, and blood thinners. If you take several medications, talk with your primary care doctor and your dentist before proceeding with the implant process.

If you believe you’re a good candidate for dental implants, the team at Smile Design Manhattan would be happy to start you on the path to a restored smile. Call our Midtown office today, or schedule a consultation online.