Dental implants can replace missing teeth and restore the function of your smile, however dental implants require surgery and may not be the best tooth replacement option for you. Here our Delta dentists explain who makes a good candidate for dental implants.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are natural looking, permanent way to replace missing teeth. For many patients, they are an excellent way to restore their smile's appearance and function. That said, dental implants require surgery and may not be the best tooth replacement option for some patients.
Requirements for Dental Implants
You must have a strong, healthy jawbone and gums in order for dental implants to be a viable tooth replacement option for you.
If you have experienced bone loss due to a tooth abscess, or suffer from oral health problems such as gingivitis, dental implants may not be for you.
Bone Grafting for Dental Implants
If you have suffered bone loss, your dentist may suggest bone grafting as a way to strengthen your jaw and make dental implants possible. However, it's important to note that the bone grafting procedure does take a number of weeks to heal and the dental implants cannot be placed until the healing process is complete.
Bone grafting involves a surgeon taking a section of bone from a different part of your body, (or using a special bone grafting material), and grafting it onto your existing jawbone. This process helps to strengthen the jaw and form a stable base to hold the dental implants.
Other Tooth Replacement Options
Other tooth replacement options such as a dental bridge or dentures may be ideal for replacing your missing teeth, if dental implants aren't suitable for you. Speak to your dentist if you are interested in replacing your missing teeth. You dentist will be able to recommend an appropriate tooth replacement option for your smile.