Who is a Candidate for Dental Implants
West Linn, OR
 A dental implant is a tooth root replacement that acts as a sturdy base for an artificial tooth. It is essentially a screw-like titanium post that is surgically inserted into your jawbone and allowed to fuse with it over time.
Missing teeth can negatively affect your oral health. Untreated tooth loss can lead to misaligned teeth, interrupt your chewing ability, and affect your speech. Dental implants offer a durable and long-lasting solution for missing teeth.
Types of Dental Implants
There are three most common types of dental implants that you can choose from.
Endosteal Implants
They have placeholder posts that look like screws, and are preferable for people with a healthy jawbone. Endosteal implants are surgically placed into your jawbone and allowed to bond with it over time. Once the site heals, an artificial tooth can be fit into place.
Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants rest under your gum but atop the jawbone. Unlike endosteal implants, they are not placed inside your jawbone. A metal frame with a post fixed to it is generally placed under your gums. The artificial tooth is then attached to the poles that emerge from the gums.
Zygomatic Implants
These are the least popular type of dental implant, and involve a complex procedure. It is best to choose zygomatic implants only if you lack a healthy jawbone required for an endosteal implant. The process entails placing the implant in the cheekbone instead of the jawbone.
Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Here are five signs you are eligible for dental implants:
Good Gum Health
Before recommending dental implants, your dentist will check your gums to ensure no indications of gum disease are present. If some signs are apparent, you will have to wait until the infection is treated. Placing dental implants while you have periodontal disease can lead to bone infection. Once your jawbone gets affected, the implant may fail.
Healthy Bone Density
Your jawbone needs to be healthy to successfully hold the implant in position. Therefore, your dentist will first check out the condition of your jawbone. If it is inadequate, a restorative procedure such as a bone graft may need to be performed before an implant can be fixed.
Good Oral Health
Your oral habits have an impact on the success of your dental implants. You are an ideal candidate for implants if you take adequate care of your teeth. Good oral practices include brushing two times a day, flossing once daily, and visiting your dentist for a routine check-up every 6 months.
No Tobacco Use
Dental implants are not suitable for people who regularly smoke or use tobacco products. Consuming tobacco hinders healing and can increase the possibility of implant failure. It limits the flow of blood and oxygen in the body, which can prevent the implant from bonding with the jawbone. If you smoke, it is best to quit six months before your implant surgery.
Minimal Bruxism
If you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, you may end up exerting undue pressure on the implants, which could loosen up as a result. If you are struggling with teeth grinding or bruxism, it may be a good idea to opt for custom-fitted night guards to ease the tension and cushion your jaw muscles.
Dental implants are an efficient and long-lasting solution to missing teeth if you meet the eligibility criteria. If you are considering opting for dental implants, schedule an appointment with us at ZenTech Dentistry by calling us at (503) 765-9699 today.
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