When it comes to tooth replacement, dental implants are the highest quality option and the standard of care. They provide a function and appearance that rivals your natural teeth. Dental implant placement is a relatively simple, minimally invasive procedure that provides lasting results.
Are you a candidate for dental implants? Find out what it takes to be eligible for this advanced tooth restoration procedure.
How Dental Implants Work
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that replace the natural roots of your teeth. A dental implant is made of titanium and shaped like a screw with threads to help it stay securely in place. After it is surgically placed, the implant fuses with the bone in your jaw over the course of a few months through a process called osseointegration. Once the implant has bonded with the bone, it can remain in place for a long time, providing the bite and chewing strength of a natural tooth.
Eligibility for Dental Implants
To be eligible for dental implants you must meet the following criteria:
- Need to replace one or more teeth. If you have one or more missing or severely damaged teeth that can’t be saved with other restorative procedures, you may be a candidate for dental implants.
- Sufficient bone structure in the jaw. The jaw bone must be thick and dense enough to support a dental implant in the location where it is needed.
- Good oral health. You must have good oral health. Conditions such as gum disease or other mouth infections need to be treated before the placement of dental implants.
- Ability to heal. Your body must have the natural ability to heal, both soft tissue and bone, in order to be eligible for dental implants.
What Are My Options if I’m Not a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Even if you are not a candidate for dental implants upon first evaluation doesn’t mean you don’t have any tooth replacement options. The following procedures may work for you:
- Bone grafting. Bone grafting is a procedure that grows jaw bone for dental implant placement. A bone substitute is placed under the gums on top of the existing bone. It bonds with the bone and encourages regeneration of the lost bone tissue.
- Mini dental implants. Patients who do not have sufficient bone structure for full size dental implants may be eligible for mini dental implants. They take up less space in the jaw and encourage regeneration of lost bone tissue.
- Dental bridge. If you are not eligible for dental implants due to significant bone loss, a dental bridge is an alternative tooth replacement option. It is supported by the healthy teeth on either side of the missing tooth and the pontic (artificial tooth) sits on top of the gums.
- Traditional dentures. If you need multiple or all of the teeth replaced, but you don’t have enough bone density for implant supported dentures, you can always opt for traditional dentures.
Are Dental Implants Worth It?
Dental implants are the highest quality tooth replacement option available in dentistry. They function as closely as possible to your natural teeth, staying securely in place while you chew and talk. In most cases, dental implants will last for the rest of your life, making them a worthwhile investment in your dental health.
Why Choose Golia Dental?
Golia Dental provides a variety of dental implant restoration options to make it possible for as many patients as possible to enjoy the benefits of dental implants. Through precision and accuracy, we provide dental implant placement with the highest chance of success. If dental implants are in your best interest, we will do everything we can to make sure you get them.
Call 203-248-7400 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.