Ideal candidates for dental implants should be in good overall health.
If you are missing one or more teeth, you may be wondering what your options are. One of the most effective treatments for tooth loss is dental implant surgery. Dental implants are placed directly into the jawbone and function just like natural teeth. With the right maintenance and care, dental implants can last for a lifetime. So, how do you know if you are a suitable candidate for the treatment? Read on to find out who can get dental implants, and what the process involves…
Who can get dental implants?
The good news is that most people who are in good overall health can get dental implants. It is important to know, however, that good oral health is also key when it comes to enjoying a successful treatment. If you are considering dental implant surgery, your dentist will check that you have enough healthy bone to support the implant and that your gums are healthy. Ideal candidates for dental implants should be willing to commit to proper oral hygiene habits, as well as regular dental check-ups.
Although many people can benefit from dental implants, there are a few cases in which the treatment may not be recommended. Individuals who suffer from certain chronic health conditions, as well as those who smoke heavily, may not be suited to the surgery.
Why consider dental implants?
There are a number of benefits to dental implant surgery. Dental implants can considerably improve the appearance of one’s smile, as they look and feel just like natural teeth. They also go a long way in improving a number of oral functions — these include speaking, eating and biting.
Dental implants are considered very comfortable. They are designed to fuse with the jawbone, which means that they are stable and will not slide out of place. They are made of extremely durable materials and can last for many years.
Dental implants can also help to improve one’s overall oral health quite considerably. They don’t have any detrimental impact on the surrounding teeth and help to maintain the structure of the jawbone.
What does the procedure involve?
The process of having dental implants placed involves a number of steps. First, a titanium post is surgically inserted into the jawbone. This post will act as the root of your new tooth and will take a few months to fuse with the jawbone. This process, known as osseointegration, can take up to six months to complete. You may experience some pain, bleeding, swelling and bleeding after the surgery. Fortunately, all of these side-effects are temporary and should resolve fairly quickly.
When your dental implant has healed and fused with your jawbone, it will be covered with a dental crown. The crown will help to achieve a natural-looking appearance.
How can we help?
At City Smiles, we offer a range of restorative treatments, including dental implants. If you are missing a tooth and would like to restore the function and appearance of your smile, you might consider dental implant surgery. The treatment is considered both permanent and effective and can go a long way in improving your overall oral health.
If you are not sure whether dental implant surgery is an appropriate treatment for you, we urge you to come in and discuss your options with us. We will let you know if you are a suitable candidate for treatment, or if an alternative treatment would be more appropriate for you.
To find out more about dental implants, what they cost at City Smiles, and what the treatment involves, please have a look here.
If you would like to arrange a consultation, please get in touch with us here or give us a call on 03 9654 6979. We look forward to welcoming you to our practice in Melbourne and helping you to improve and maintain your oral health.