Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants? Find Out Here!
Dental implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth, offering a solution that looks, feels, and functions just like the real thing. While this technology has a very high success rate, not everyone is an immediate candidate. At Bright Star Dental, our evaluation process is thorough. Here are the key factors we consider.
Having Sufficient Jawbone Density
The most critical requirement for a dental implant is a strong, healthy jawbone. The titanium implant post acts as an artificial tooth root and must fuse directly with the bone—a process called osseointegration. If a tooth has been missing for some time, the jawbone may have atrophied, but this doesn’t mean you’re disqualified.
Maintaining Good Oral Health
A healthy mouth is a prerequisite for implant surgery. Conditions like active gum disease (periodontitis) can attack the bone supporting the implant and lead to failure. Before you can receive dental implants, we must first treat any existing decay or gum infections to ensure we’re building on a completely healthy foundation.
A Strong Commitment to Oral Hygiene
While implants are immune to cavities, they are not immune to the effects of poor hygiene. The health of the surrounding gum tissue is vital. A dedicated daily routine of brushing and flossing is essential to prevent bacteria from building up and causing inflammation, which could compromise your full dental implants.
Considering Your Overall Health Status
Your general health plays a significant role in your ability to heal successfully from surgery. Chronic conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders can slow recovery. Likewise, habits like smoking can dramatically decrease the success rate of dental implants. Our Las Cruces dental clinic will review your medical history carefully.
Many people are excellent candidates for dental implants, and even if you don’t meet all the criteria right away, preliminary treatments can often prepare you for success. The only definitive way to know for sure is through a professional evaluation. Schedule your consultation at Bright Star Dental to take the first step.