Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option out there. They are unique because they replace the roots of the missing teeth, allowing for additional benefits, like stability, comfort, and longevity. However, not everyone who is missing teeth is a good candidate for dental implants. Here are some issues that can prevent you from getting dental implants.
Periodontal Disease
You can’t have dental implants placed if there is an active infection in your mouth. This includes periodontal disease. This can develop and worsen around the area of the implant and even damage the bone that holds your teeth in place. You are much more likely to experience dental implant failure if you have gum disease. It’s important that the infection is treated and eliminated before you can move forward with dental implant treatment.
Bone Loss
When you don’t have enough supportive bone structure, your dentist won’t be able to place your implant in a place where it can be stable enough to be successful long term. A lot of the time, bone loss is the result of missing teeth in the past, but it can also be caused by advanced gum disease and osteoporosis.
Poor Oral Hygiene
If you aren’t taking good care of your smile now, how will your dentist know that you will care for your smile when you have dental implants. If there is a reason why you are unable to thoroughly clean your smile every day, dental implants probably aren’t the right tooth replacement option for you.
Smoking
Dental implants have a very high success rate. However, using tobacco products can increase the risk of dental implant failure. Fortunately, if you are someone who smokes, you aren’t necessarily disqualified for the procedure. Just remember that it’s important that you refrain from smoking for at least one week before and two months after your placement surgery. This is because smoking interferes with the healing process.
Health Conditions
If you have been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease or conditions like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, your dental implant is more likely to fail. This is because these conditions interfere with your body’s ability to heal which can get in the way of the osseointegration process. This is when the titanium implant fuses with your jawbone. Some medications can also increase your likelihood of dental implant failure. It’s important to let your dentist know if you have any health conditions or are taking any medications. This way, all necessary precautions can be taken for your health.
Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth. If you are interested in replacing your missing teeth, schedule a consultation with your dentist. You’ll be showing off a complete smile in just a matter of time!
About the Author
Dr. Publio Silfa is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for well over a decade. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Universidad Central del Este in the Dominican Republic before returning to the U.S. he completed his three-year post-graduate residency at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. Currently, he is a proud member of the American Dental Association. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule a consultation at his office in Commack, visit his website or call (631) 651-1322.