Dental implants are one of the safest, most effective methods for replacing any missing teeth. They look, feel, and function similarly to your natural teeth, which can help patients regain confidence and a lasting smile. Yet one of the most common questions people ask before getting a treatment is, “Am I a good candidate for dental implants?”
In this blog, we are going to examine whether you are ideal to get dental implants near you, the role of age and health in the procedure, and what you need to consider before you start the treatment.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants consist of titanium posts that are surgically inserted into your jawbone to mimic the biological purpose of an artificial tooth root.
The post will act like a base, to which an artificial tooth can be attached at a later time, e.g., a crown or bridge. Over time, the implant integrates into your jawbone through a process called osseointegration, allowing a durable and stable base for dental prostheses.
Contact your dentist today to assess your eligibility for dental implants based on your oral and general health.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Before having any dental implants, your dentist needs to assess the health of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. One component of that process involves taking dental X-rays nearby, and it is necessary so that your dentist will be able to assess jawbone structure and possible pathology. This will help your dentist determine if your jawbone structure is strong enough for dental implants and where they can best be placed. Almost all adults who are missing teeth would be eligible to get dental implants in Etobicoke; however, there are specific criteria to qualify a person to receive this treatment. Here are the most important aspects your dentist will examine:
1. Healthy Gums
Before an implant can be completed, the gums must be free from infection and gum disease. Gum health is important to support the new artificial tooth.
2. Adequate Jawbone
A certain amount of bone is required to properly support the dental implant. If the bone is too thin and weak, the dentist may recommend a bone graft before the placement.
3. Good Overall Health
The overall health must be stable, since the placement of the implants is considered a minor surgical procedure. If you have uncontrolled diabetes, smoke, or have conditions that can impair the immune system, then those would be risks that would impact the healing rate.
4. Commitment to Oral Care
Post-implant oral care must be completed to ensure the long-term success of the implants, including proper oral hygiene and visiting the dentist every 6 months for cleanings and evaluations.
How Age Impacts Dental Implants
Age does not offer a strict barrier for an individual receiving implants; however, there are qualifications based on age:
Young Adult (Under 18):
Dentists do not generally recommend placing implants until a child’s jawbone is completely developed, which usually happens around 18 years of age or older.
Adult (18-60):
Most healthy adults will be appropriate candidates for receiving dental implants, and this group makes up the largest population of patients receiving implants.
Older Adult (60 +):
Seniors are usually great candidates for getting implants if the bone and gums are healthy. Even patients who have utilized dentures for several years have the potential to upgrade and switch to an implant because of improved comfort and stability.
Health Conditions May Affect Candidacy for Implants
While the majority of individuals can receive implants, a few health conditions may require some thoughtful attention:
- Diabetes: If poorly controlled, it might slow your healing time.
- Smoking: Smoking may reduce the blood supply to your gums and increase the chance of implant failure.
- Heart Disease: Patients may require medical clearance before surgery.
- Bone Disease: Conditions such as osteoporosis may affect the density of your bone.
If you have any of these considerations, your dentist near you will assess your medical history and potentially consult with your doctor to develop the right treatment plan for you.
Importance of Good Oral Hygiene
Dental implants depend on healthy gums and bones. Flossing and brushing your teeth twice a day, along with an antibacterial mouthwash, will help prevent infection at the implant site. Regular dental cleanings will also allow your dentist to identify any potential problems early along the way.
Your dentist can provide you with the proper care routines and maintenance intervals to assist in caring for your implants as well as your natural teeth.
Benefits of Dental Implants
There are many future benefits you receive with dental implants, including:
- Natural appearance: They blend into your other natural teeth.
- Durability: With good care, implants can last a lifetime.
- Comfort and speech: No more slipping or clicking like dentures.
- Bone structure: Prevents the loss of bone structure from an extraction.
- Confidence: You feel and look confident; a full smile provides that boost.
When Dental Implants Might Not Be the Right Option?
In certain situations, dental implants may not be appropriate, such as:
- Infected gums or teeth not treated for a cavity
- The majority of the jawbone is lost (not due to a bone graft)
- Chronic illnesses that slow healing
The good news is that some of these issues can be addressed, treated, or managed to make you a good candidate for dental implants at a later time.
Restore your Smile, Renew Your Confidence—Trusted Implant care at Kailash Dentistry
Dental implants are one of the best ways to replace missing teeth and provide future strength, function, and aesthetics. Most healthy adults are candidates for this treatment; your dentist will always take gum health, bone health, and overall medical condition into consideration prior to placement.
At Kailash Dentistry, we provide dental care that is personalized to give you a healthy smile with confidence. Kailash Dentistry’s implant team will complete the entire process for you with individualized treatment—starting with a comprehensive evaluation, including dental x-rays, correct implant placement, and complete treatment follow-up and maintenance.
If you are looking for a professional dentist in Etobicoke or an experienced dentist near you, schedule a visit with Kailash Dentistry today.
