Are you tired of dealing with the hassle of missing teeth, or perhaps the discomfort of ill-fitting dentures? Dental implants might just be the solution you've been searching for. These sturdy, artificial tooth roots offer a permanent and natural-looking solution to address tooth loss. However, not everyone is an ideal candidate for this procedure.
In this comprehensive guide, our Atlanta, GA oral surgeons explore the various factors that determine whether you're a suitable candidate for dental implants. From assessing your oral health and bone density to considering your overall health and lifestyle factors, we'll walk you through the essential criteria that dentists use to determine candidacy.
Whether you've lost a single tooth or multiple teeth, understanding the candidacy criteria for dental implants is the first step towards restoring your smile and regaining your confidence. Learn more about your candidacy with the team at Oral Surgery Specialists of Atlanta. Schedule your consultation now by calling our team at (404) 351-5335.
Assessing Candidacy: What are oral surgeons looking for?
To be an ideal candidate for tooth implants, patients must have:
Sufficient Bone Density
A candidate should have enough bone density in the jaw to support the implant securely. In cases where bone density is insufficient, bone grafting procedures may be necessary.
Good Oral Health
Candidates should have overall good oral health, including healthy gums and teeth. Any existing dental issues (for example, gum disease or tooth decay) need to be addressed before proceeding with implant surgery.
Commitment to Oral Hygiene
Candidates should be wholly committed to maintaining excellent oral hygiene habits, including regular flossing, brushing, and attending dental check-ups.
Tobacco-Free Lifestyle
Smoking and tobacco products can interfere with the healing journey after implant surgery, thereby increasing the risk of implant failure. Ideal candidates should be non-smokers or willing to quit smoking before undergoing the procedure.
Decent General Health
Candidates should be in good overall health, without any conditions that could interfere with the healing process or increase the risk of complications during surgery. Factors such as diabetes and autoimmune disorders may need to be carefully evaluated.
Realistic Expectations
Candidates should have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure. They must understand the limitations of dental implants.
Stable Bite
People who want implants should have a stable bite and sufficient jaw alignment to support them properly.
Commitment to Treatment
Dental implant candidates should be willing to commit to the entire treatment process. This means that they must be comfortable with attending multiple appointments over several months.
Absence of Bruxism
Jaw clenching and teeth grinding can be problematic for new implants. So, patients with a history of severe bruxism may not be suitable candidates for this treatment.
Evaluating Candidacy: How is candidacy determined?
Dentists and oral surgeons employ various means to determine a patient's candidacy for dental implants. These methods typically involve a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's oral health, medical history, and anatomical considerations.
Clinical Examination
Dentists and oral surgeons conduct a thorough clinical examination of the patient's oral cavity, including the condition of the gums, remaining teeth, and bone structure.
Dental Imaging
Dental professionals use imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, or cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans to assess the quantity and quality of the jawbone, as well as the positioning of adjacent teeth and structures.
Medical History Review
Oral surgeons and dentists review the patient's medical history to identify any underlying health conditions or medications that may impact the success of dental implant surgery.
Conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and certain medications can affect healing and increase the risk of complications.
Bone Density Assessment
In cases where bone density is a concern, dental providers may need to conduct additional tests (such as bone density scans or digital imaging) to evaluate the amount and quality of bone available for implant placement.
Oral Hygiene Assessment
Dentists assess the patient's oral hygiene habits and commitment to maintaining good oral health, as proper oral hygiene is essential for the long-term success of dental implants. Candidates should be willing to adhere to strict oral hygiene practices, including frequent brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.
Lifestyle Factors
Factors such as smoking habits, alcohol consumption, and overall lifestyle choices may also be considered when determining candidacy for dental implants.
Smoking, in particular, can greatly impair healing and increase the risk of implant failure. In fact, 2022 data suggest that implants inserted in people who smoke are around 140% more likely to fail. So, candidates are encouraged to quit smoking before undergoing implant surgery.
How to Improve Dental Implant Candidacy
Here's a list of things patients can do to increase their candidacy for dental implant surgery:
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Brushing after meals, flossing daily, and attending dental check-ups are required for maintaining healthy gums and teeth. A healthy mouth is crucial for successful dental implant surgery.
Quit Smoking
Smoking and tobacco products can impair healing and increase the risk of complications before, during, and after implant surgery. Quitting all tobacco products (especially smokeable products) before undergoing the procedure can significantly improve implant success rates.
Control Chronic Health Conditions
Patients with chronic health conditions such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders should work with their healthcare providers to manage these conditions effectively before undergoing dental implant surgery.
Address Oral Health Issues
Patients must address any existing oral health issues (including untreated gum disease or minor tooth decay) before proceeding with dental implant surgery. Taking care of these issues beforehand ensures a healthy oral environment for the implants.
Follow Recommendations for Bone Health
Patients with concerns about bone density should follow recommendations to maintain or improve bone health, which may include dietary changes, supplementation, or weight-bearing exercises.
Consider Bone Grafting
In instances where bone volume may not be ideal to support dental implants, patients may be suitable candidates for bone grafting procedures. These procedures augment the jawbone and improve implant success rates.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Eating a nutrient-dense diet, staying hydrated, and getting regular exercise can contribute to overall health and support successful healing after dental implant surgery.
Follow Preoperative Instructions
Patients should follow any preoperative instructions provided by their dental team. These instructions may include fasting before surgery, adjusting medications, or avoiding certain substances that could interfere with the procedure or healing process.
Be Committed to Aftercare
After dental implant surgery, patients should adhere to postoperative instructions provided by their dental team. These instructions may include information on proper oral hygiene practices, dietary restrictions, and attending follow-up appointments for monitoring and maintenance.
Schedule a Dental Implants Consultation in Atlanta, GA
If you’re ready to embark on the journey toward a more complete and healthy smile, contact Oral Surgery Specialists of Atlanta. All patients can easily request dental implant consultations online, or they may call our dental office in Atlanta, GA, at (404) 351-5335 for more information.
