Dental implants have given countless people the power to replace their lost teeth with beautiful restorations that look, feel, and function just like the real thing. While the dental community considers these devices to be the finest form of tooth replacement available, patients will still need to meet a set of criteria before they can be suitable candidates for the treatment. Here’s a brief guide to a few of the qualifications you’ll need to meet to get dental implants and how your dentist may be able to help you achieve them.
Dental Implants Need Disease-Free Gums
When you have your consultation for dental implants, your dentist will thoroughly inspect your mouth and assess your oral health. One of the most significant issues your dentist will look for is gum disease, as these infections can compromise the tissues that your dental implants will depend on for support. If you have gum disease, your dentist will be happy to help you clear it up by scheduling you for periodontal therapy.
Dental Implants Need Strong Jaws
The jawbones need stimulation from the chewing process to stay healthy and strong, and tooth loss deprives them of this exercise and causes them to atrophy and recede. While dental implants can prevent or even reverse this process of bone loss, you’ll need to have sufficient jawbone density to receive them. If your jawbones are too thin for dental implants, your dentist may be able to refer you to a specialist for bone grafts. After you have recovered from these treatments, your oral healthcare provider will be able to design your customized dental implant treatment plan.
Dental Implants Need Excellent Oral Hygiene
Dental implants can last for a lifetime and save a patient from spending thousands of dollars on replacement restorations, but they must receive excellent oral hygiene to stay healthy and strong. Luckily, dental implants only require the same care as real teeth, so you’ll only need to adhere to a few excellent habits like:
- Brushing and flossing every day
- Using antibacterial mouthwash regularly
- Seeing your dentist twice a year for routine exams and cleanings
- Limiting your consumption of sugary, starchy, and acidic foods and beverages
Dental implants have allowed countless patients to enjoy the marvelous benefits that come with a complete smile. Consulting with your dentist can help you find out if these prosthodontic devices can be a suitable solution for you.
About the Practice
Woodside Dental Care offers the finest oral health services in town. Led by Drs. Melvin Velazquez, Maribel Montes, Sylvia Arsuaga, and Paola Velazquez, the staff ensures that each patient enjoys courteous and compassionate treatment in a warm and friendly office environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implant services. To learn more about preparing for dental implants, contact the office online or dial the front desk at (718) 898-6010.