As anyone who's ever suffered from tooth loss will have learned, it is vitally important that the site(s) of any lost teeth be treated to ensure the health of the surrounding teeth and jawbone and the appearance of their smile.
Dental implants are the most effective and longest-lasting tooth replacement solution. Unfortunately, however, dental implants are not an appropriate solution for all patients. Here is a handy guide to help you determine whether implants are right for you!
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium rod implanted into a patient's jawbone by a dentist in the aftermath of tooth loss. These posts are placed in the vacated hole, or "socket," left by a lost tooth, where they fuse permanently with the jawbone in a process called "osseointegration."
Once an implant is in place, it is an excellent anchoring point for a permanent replacement, like a dental crown. Dental implants are widely regarded as the superior tooth replacement solution because they offer the look and feel of natural teeth and, with proper care, can last a lifetime!
Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental implants are an excellent option for anyone missing one or more teeth. However, implants are not appropriate for all patients. To qualify for dental implants, a patient must have:
- A fully-formed jawbone. While there's no set age at which an individual's jawbone fully develops, this typically occurs between 18 and 24 years of age.
- Strong supporting oral structures. A patient's gums and jawbone must be healthy and strong enough to support an implant.
- Good overall health. Patients suffering from certain medical conditions, like type-2 diabetes, are unsuitable candidates for dental implants. Beyond this, a dental implant candidate should generally be in good overall health.
It's important to note that each individual's case is unique and that only a dentist or oral surgeon can definitively determine whether a patient is a suitable candidate for dental implants.
Dental Implants in Northern Idaho
If you're in the Coeur d'Alene or Ponderay/Sandpoint areas and would like to learn more about whether dental implants are right for you, contact dentist Dr. Chace Mickelson and the North Idaho Dental Group team to schedule a consultation.