Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a permanent solution to tooth loss—a surprisingly common problem among adults in the U.S. According to the American College of Prosthodontists (ACP):

• An estimated 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth.
• Around 40 million Americans are missing all of their teeth (total tooth loss).
• About 30 million Americans between the ages of 60 and 74 have no natural teeth.

Tooth loss isn’t a purely cosmetic issue. Even a small gap from one missing tooth can cause surrounding teeth to shift and rotate, gradually impacting a person’s ability to speak and chew comfortably. If left unaddressed, missing teeth may also lead to alveolar bone loss; as much as 25% of a person’s bone is lost within one year of losing a tooth when no replacement solution is provided.

Thankfully, dental implants can resolve tooth loss, boost oral health, and create a complete smile, as they look and function just like real teeth. Restorative treatments aren’t one-size-fits-all, though—some people aren’t candidates for dental implants and would benefit more from less invasive restorative dentistry solutions such as bridges or dentures.

Signs of a Candidate for Dental Implants

In general, a candidate for dental implants should:

Have Good Gum (Periodontal) Health

An implant dentist works along the gum line and into the alveolar bone during the procedure. Because of this, having poor gum health (for example, severe gum disease) may disqualify someone from receiving dental implants.

Not Smoke

Smoking tobacco impedes the body’s healing processes and can make it difficult to recover from the dental implant procedure. If you’re interested in receiving dental implants, it’s essential that you quit smoking.

Maintain Excellent Dental Hygiene Habits

Practicing good oral hygiene habits—including thoroughly brushing teeth, gently brushing gums, and flossing daily—is key to the long-term success of a dental implant procedure.

Have Sufficient Bone Density

Dental implants are secured into the alveolar bone, which is the thick bone ridge of the jaw that contains tooth sockets. Having poor bone density due to an extended period of tooth loss or other factors may make installing dental implants difficult or impossible.

Not Have Severe Bruxism

Bruxism is another name for persistent teeth grinding or clenching. Someone with frequent or severe bruxism may not be a candidate for dental implants, as excessive pressure can damage the implants over time.

Dental Implants From a Leading Restorative Dentistry Provider

Burns Dentistry is a trusted source for dental implants and other popular restorative dentistry solutions in Sun City, Sun City West, and Litchfield Park, Arizona. Led by experienced dentists and technicians, our practice offers full-arch dental implants, single implants, and implant bridges to assist patients with a wide range of needs.

Let’s get connected! To schedule a consultation at a Burns Dentistry location near you and learn if you’re a candidate for dental implants, call our friendly professionals today or request more information on our website. Our team accepts many dental insurances and is pleased to offer convenient financing options.