While it may seem like only those with terrible oral health should go for implants, the fact is that the opposite is true. Those with great oral health are the ones that can opt for dental implants. That's because dental implants require good jaw bone and gum tissues free from various issues.
That being said, you might be wondering if you are a good candidate for implants. If that's a dilemma running in your head, don't worry. Here's what to consider to know if you are a good candidate for dental implants:
1. The Type Of Implant
This is the first question you must ask: what kind of implant is right for me? In every case, the answer is simple: it depends. That is because dental implants are available in a variety of types.
Most dental implants, however, fall into four types:
Implant-Retained Dentures
Bridge-Restored Implant-Retained Dentures
Cantilever-Restored Implant-Retained Denture
Complete Dentures Retained by an Implant Abutment
These types are determined by how the implant fits into your mouth and how it is held in place to your jaw bone.
2. Your Oral Health
Your oral health is the most important element in determining your candidacy for dental implants. That's because your bone and gum tissues must be healthy. This is because dental implants are meant to be permanent fixtures in your mouth.
If your bone and gum tissues are too fragile, then the implants may not hold as well and, as a result, will be more likely to break. Likewise, if your oral health is bad, you are more likely to develop gum disease and bone loss.
3. Your Age
Dental implants can be done on anyone that is a good candidate, but your age and sex could play a factor. The older you are and the more teeth you have lost, the more likely you are to need implant-supported dentures.
However, people who are healthy, have strong bone and gum tissues and have lost a few or all of their teeth are more likely to be better dental implant candidates.
4. Your Medications Or Conditions
Another factor to consider is your medical or dental history and any other conditions that might be present. If you have had other dental procedures or orthodontics, then you might have lost bone or have had some connective tissue removed in the process. If that is the case, then you might need additional steps or procedures done to ensure that you have enough bone for the implants to work.
It is much easier to deal with this issue before dental implants are placed so that you don't have to go through a more invasive procedure to fix it.
Conclusion
While dental implants can be done on anyone, there are some things that should be considered. Things such as your oral health and age play a role in determining whether you are the right candidate for dental implants. If you need further understanding on whether you can get dental implants, feel free to reach out to your dentist. They can check the state of your oral health and consider all the factors needed to know whether or not you are eligible for dental implants!
Dental House MI offers various dental services to meet any oral needs you may have. If you are looking for dental implants in Waterford, book an appointment with us today!