For those who qualify, dental implants offer a long-term, durable, and aesthetically pleasing solution to the perpetual missing teeth problem. However, patients must undergo a thorough evaluation to determine if they are good dental implant candidates.
Dr. Julie Glud offers personalized sessions to obtain adequate information and establish candidacy. So, arrange a dental implant consultation at our Lombard, IL, clinic.
Implant treatments are not for everyone, but here are four qualifying factors that can signify that a dental implant is suitable for you and your lifestyle.
Decent Oral Health and Hygiene
Other than the tooth that requires the replacement, we recommend that your gums and teeth be in excellent health. The gums and bone must be capable of holding the implant.
Notably, we ask that patients successfully manage periodontal (gum) disease before dental implant surgery. Neglected gum disease can irreparably destroy healthy gums, teeth, and jawbones in the more advanced stages. Furthermore, the bacteria that causes this condition may predispose individuals to several systemic, inflammatory diseases.
After the surgical site has healed, patients must commit to maintaining excellent oral hygiene, including a dental visit at least every six months.
Good General Health
Dental implant placements require surgery, incisions, and stitches—not to mention an extensive recovery period. Therefore, a dental implant candidate must be healthy enough to withstand surgery and months of recovery.
Furthermore, Dr. Glud will evaluate you on an individualized basis if the following describes you:
- Heavy and habitual smokers
- People who have undergone radiation therapy in the head and neck area
- People suffering from uncontrolled chronic disorders (for example, cardiovascular disease)
Adequate Jawbone Density
Sometimes, bone health is overlooked, but it’s an essential factor when deciding if you’re a dental implant candidate. Dental implants are placed in the jawbone, so they must be solid and satisfactory to support the device.
However, low bone density does not automatically disqualify you for dental implants. Before implant surgery, patients with inadequate bone tissue can receive bone graft or sinus lift to rectify this problem. Also, suppose your jawbone is still developing. If this is the case, wait until your jaw is fully grown to get dental implants.
Time and Patience
While our dentist can place some restorative dentistry methods (such as a dental filling or crown) in as little as one or two sessions, dental implants are not the case. Treatment times vary based on if you need prerequisite procedures and how your body responds to the dental implant.
Importantly, you must be ready and willing to commit several weeks or months to complete the whole procedure. Much of your timeline will consist of healing and waiting patiently for new bone growth in your jaw.
Discover If You are a Dental Implant Candidate
The best way to decide if you are a dental implant candidate is to find a qualified local dentist to perform dental implant surgery.
Serving Lombard, IL, and surrounding areas, Dr. Glud applies her experience and knowledge to help patients decide dental implants are suitable for them. If Dr. Glud decides that you would not benefit from dental implants, she will discuss other tooth replacement options. Don’t wait for a second longer! Call 630-629-5700 or message us online to see if you qualify for dental implants.
