Are Dental Implants Right For You? Important Factors To Consider
Thinking of getting dental implants? If the answer to this question is yes, you're probably wondering if they are right for you. Unfortunately, the answer to this question isn't always simple as there are several different factors that must be considered to determine if this treatment is right for you. Here are just some of the factors to think about that can get you closer to an answer.
Healthy Gums
If you're going to consider dental implants, you need to ensure you have healthy gums with good bone density. The reason this is so important is that the implant is supported by your bones. So, if you have low bone density, the implant will not be supported properly, meaning it could fail. If you have accelerated gum disease or are dealing with bone loss, your provider may need to discuss alternate options with you.
Good Hygiene Practices
Make sure you already have good hygiene practices in place. A common misconception about dental implants is the idea that you no longer need to take care of your oral health. However, this is not the case. Good oral health includes your mouth, teeth and gums. If you aren't brushing and flossing, you open the door to gum disease and if you still have some of your natural teeth, you could even deal with cavities.
Committed to Regular Check-Ups
Dental implants are designed to last for a very long time with little effort needed on your part. However, this does not mean that you don't still need to be under the care of a dental professional. If you're considering implants, you also need to be committed to continuing routine dental checkups with your provider. If you don't, you open the door to other health concerns so stay on top of your appointments.
Good Overall Health
The ideal candidate for dental implants should be in good overall health. For example, if you have an autoimmune disorder or you have diabetes that you are unable to control, this can reduce your body's natural ability to heal. In terms of dental implants, this could mean that the incision site remains open longer than it should, increasing your risk for infection. If you have one of these diseases, you will need to speak with your provider first.
When it comes to determining whether dental implants are right for you, your conversation should begin and end with your dental provider. Only a healthcare professional can examine your needs and oral health to determine if this is the right method for you.
