As the techniques and materials for dental implants have improved, a growing number of Americans have become more interested in using them, instead of dentures, partial plates, and bridgework. In fact, according to recent statistics, more than five million dental implants are now being done annually in the United States.
Dental implants can do more than replace a single lost or damaged tooth. In fact, dental implants are increasingly being chosen as an alternative to the use of dentures. If you or someone you love is interested in pursuing one or more dental implant procedures, it is important that you understand the basic criteria you will be required to meet in order to have this type of procedure.
Good basic dental health
The first criteria for most dental surgical procedures is good basic oral health. Dental patients who suffer from gum diseases or other oral health issues are known to be much more prone to post-surgical infection risks that could cause complications after a dental implant procedure.
Those who would like to explore the possibility of getting one or more dental implants should also be non-smokers. People who smoke or use tobacco can have significantly longer healing times and increased risks of infection. Smokers who are interested in dental implants should consider stopping several months prior to scheduling the procedure.
Supportive bone structure
Because the dental implant depends upon the support of the patient's jawbone to anchor the implant and allow it to remain secure, the amount of bone is an important criteria that prospective patients must meet. In addition to ensuring that the jawbone has reached its full, adult size, dental care providers also check to see whether sufficient bone mass is available in the area in which the dental implant will be inserted into the bone.
Dental implant candidates who do not have sufficient bone mass, or those whose jawbone is too porous, may still be able to have a dental implant through a jawbone graft. Bone grafts used for the purpose of a future dental implantation procedure can be natural bone taken from another location in the patient's body or a synthetic material that will provide the necessary support for the implant.
Dental patients who are interested in using dental implants to improve their overall oral health and avoid the use of dentures and other dental appliances should begin their research by discussing their dental health goals and concerns with their dentist or a member of their dental health care team.
Share24 October 2019
When the bottled water craze began, I jumped on the bandwagon with everyone else who was drinking water from bottles instead of from the tap. I wasn't sure why bottled water was healthier, but I liked the taste. When I went for my next dental check-up, I had my first cavity in a while, so I had it filled and didn't think much of it. Well, I had two more during my next check-up after that, and I began trying to think of why my teeth were suddenly going bad. The only change in my habits was the switch to bottled water, so I made the switch back to tap water and my teeth began to improve. I created this blog to encourage others who have begun getting cavities suddenly to look into their changes in habits. They may find they made a change similar to mine.