Dental implants are surgically implanted artificial teeth. They act as artificial tooth roots to replace missing teeth. Implants offer many benefits over traditional treatments. But who are the good candidates for this modern-day marvel of restorative dentistry?
In this blog post, we take a deeper look into this important question. We’ll explore who should consider getting dental implants and what factors you need to consider when deciding whether implant dentistry is right for you.
Read on to learn more – your smile might thank you!
What Factors Determine Whether I Am a Suitable Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a viable treatment option for missing teeth. Several factors may determine whether or not you’re a suitable candidate.
- Candidates must have healthy gums and sufficient bone density to have the implant securely anchored in place. Patients with gum or periodontal disease must undergo treatment prior to implant treatment.
- Candidates must show commitment to oral hygiene and to receiving regular dental checkups. This is to keep dental implants clean and free of infection.
- Candidates who use tobacco products or drugs may not necessarily be rejected. However, they pose a greater risk of implant failure due to poor healing time.
- Candidates should be willing to dedicate the necessary time to the process. This usually involves several appointments spread over several months.
- Candidates need to consider the cost. This procedure is quite expensive and usually not covered by health funds.
Ultimately, all candidates interested in getting dental implants should consult their dentist. They can evaluate these various criteria and help patients make an informed decision about whether receiving dental implants is suitable for them or not.
Can I Still Get Dental Implants if I Have Low Bone Density?
Modern dentistry offers hope even with low bone density or extensive bone loss in the jaw. A study published in The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry found that dental implants can be successful in patients with low bone density. This is if special precautions are observed.
Patients told they are ineligible for implants can now explore innovative techniques that still allow them to receive this life-changing treatment. Highly trained dentists assess multiple aspects of a patient’s oral health. This includes counting missing teeth and pinpointing the cause of bone loss to accurately gauge its reach on different regions inside the jawbone.
One technique to address low bone density is through a bone graft procedure. Bone grafting is done for patients who do not have adequate bone density. The procedure builds the jawbone to prepare it for an implant. Bone grafting material can be derived from various sources. This includes donor tissue and natural or synthetic material.
Another procedure that can address low bone density is the sinus lift procedure. This is specifically done in the upper jaw, where the sinus membrane is lifted, and a bone graft is placed to create more bone into which the implant can integrate. This increases the success of dental implants.
For more extreme cases of bone loss, such as when full-mouth rehabilitation is necessary, All-on-4 dental implants often provide a better solution. This system consists of only four specialised dental implants, which can be placed directly into areas with diminished structure. With this approach, patients may receive an entire set of new teeth with minimal invasiveness.
If low bone density is holding you back from getting dental implants, talk to your dentist about these solutions today!
How Does the Patient's Overall Health Affect the Candidacy for Dental Implants?
A patient’s overall health plays a significant role in determining candidacy for dental implants. Before being considered a good candidate, a thorough review of their medical history is critical. This will determine if they are healthy enough for implant surgery.
If the patient has underlying medical conditions that can lead to poor wound healing or increased risk in surgery, then they may not be an ideal candidate for implants. Some of these health conditions include:
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Autoimmune disorders
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Cancer
- Peripheral vascular disease
It is important to consider how overall health conditions play into candidacy. The success of dental implant treatment often depends on how well the body can heal and adapt to them.
How Much Does It Cost to Get Dental Implants?
The cost of dental implants is unique to everyone and can vary widely. This makes it hard to give a definitive answer. Several factors are taken into account when calculating the cost of implants, including:
- The complexity of your case:
If your case requires a more complex treatment plan, you’ll likely pay more due to its difficulty. - Your dentist’s experience level:
An experienced dentist will usually charge more than a less experienced one. - Where you live:
The cost of implants in different areas can vary significantly. The cost may be higher or lower depending on where you receive treatment. - The number of teeth being replaced:
The cost may be higher if you need to replace multiple teeth versus one tooth.
All of these factors help dictate how much it will cost to get dental implants. The type of implant will also determine how much you’ll pay. There are different types of dental implants, and they have different costs associated with them.
- Single-tooth implants:
Single-tooth implants are used to fill in a gap from losing one tooth. The implant is securely attached to the jawbone and functions like a natural tooth. For single-tooth replacements, you can expect to pay anywhere from $4,000 – $6,000. - Implant-supported bridges:
An implant-supported bridge may be used for multiple missing teeth. It is held by two or more implants and comprises two or more crowns attached to the implants and pontics, which are artificial teeth. The cost for implant-supported bridges ranges from $6,700 – $20,500. - Implant-supported dentures:
Implant-supported dentures offer a more comfortable and secure fit than traditional dentures. Dental implants anchor it to the jaw, making it more stable. They cost around $15,000 – $18,000 per arch. - All-on-Four dental implants:
All-on-Four dental implants comprise four titanium screws embedded in the jawbone. It replaces a full arch of teeth, enabling patients to regain full mouth functionality more quickly than single dental implants. Cost estimates range between $16,000 and $42,000 per fixed arch.
Knowing what factors play into the cost of dental implants before committing to them helps make an informed decision.
Are There Any Alternative Options for Those Who Are Not Suitable Candidates for Dental Implants?
While dental implants are a viable option to replace missing teeth, not everyone is an ideal candidate for them. Fortunately, alternative tooth restoration options exist to help those who don’t meet the requirements for implants.
- Full-Mouth Dentures:
Full-mouth dentures involve a removable plastic plate that holds a full set of artificial teeth. These restorations cost lower than dental implants and provide a good replacement for lost teeth. - Partial Dentures:
Partial dentures are similar to traditional dentures but with the addition of metal clasps that anchors the denture to natural teeth, making them much more stable. - Fixed Bridges:
Fixed dental bridges involve replacing missing teeth with artificial teeth anchored to adjacent natural teeth. Dental bridges are cemented in place and require meticulous cleaning for proper maintenance.
Each alternative option varies in cost, affordability, and convenience. Consult your dentist to determine which tooth replacement option will work for you.
Final Thoughts
from candidates who possess ideal oral and health characteristics such as adequate bone quality, healthy gums, and good overall health.
Whether you are aiming to get a single tooth replaced or need a full set of teeth, consulting with a dental professional at Clear Choice Dental can help you determine if you are compatible with this dental procedure and guide you through the implant process.
You deserve to get your beautiful smile back. You deserve a better quality of life. Take control, and book a consultation appointment through our website or call Clear Choice Dental today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recovery from dental implant surgery varies from person to person. Generally, it takes 3-6 months to recover after the surgical procedure. This depends on how well a patient takes care of their oral health during that period.
During the healing process, the implant fuses with the jaw bone in a process called osseointegration. This stabilises the implant post and prepares it to receive the abutment and prosthesis afterwards.
Dental implants carry the risk of infection. Much like a real tooth, dental implants can become infected. Some reasons include the following:
- If good oral hygiene is not practised
- If the dental implant procedure was not administered properly by a dental professional
- Smoking cigarettes or using tobacco products
- If there is an underlying illness, such as diabetes or HIV/AIDS.
Taking care of dental implants as you would of your teeth will greatly reduce your chance of infection. This includes brushing, flossing, and getting regular dental checkups. If you experience pain or discomfort with your dental implants, speak with your dentist as soon as possible.
If dental implants become infected, a dental professional should address the problem as quickly as possible and begin treatment. The treatment may involve antibiotics, cleaning the affected area, or receiving a new dental implant.
Dental implants are not a one-and-done approach. Taking proper care of them is important to make sure they last. To prevent dental implant failure, here are five tips to follow.
- Practice good oral hygiene habits daily, like brushing twice and flossing once a day.
- Keep up with regular dental visits.
- If you smoke or use tobacco products, quit immediately. Smoking impairs the osseointegration process, which attaches your implant to the surrounding bone structure.
- Maintain healthy lifestyle choices by having a balanced diet. Sticking with a diet low in processed sugars and high in minerals like calcium is also beneficial for both teeth and implants alike.
- Listen to your dentist’s instructions after having dental implant surgery. Doing so will enable you to have a successful outcome from the procedure.
These tips can help you prevent dental implant failure and keep your teeth looking great for many years.
Not all dentists can provide dental implants. While general dentists usually have a great deal of knowledge about all areas of dental health, implant placement is an area of specialty and requires specialised training.
To find out if a dentist has been trained in implant placement, ask them specifically if they can perform the procedure. If not, they will likely refer you to another dentist with the needed expertise.
Don’t worry. Finding someone qualified should be fairly easy. Just remember to do your research. Ask questions to make sure you choose the right dentist who meets your needs.
