To be an ideal candidate for an implant, you need to have any gum disease you may have treated first. Otherwise, you may experience implant failure, as implants need a firm anchor in the jawbone. If bone loss occurs because of gum disease, this usually is not possible.
The Ideal Implant Patient
If you are interested in getting implants to replace one or more missing teeth or to have fixed dentures placed, you meet part of the eligibility requirements. You also need, as indicated, to have healthy gums. Therefore, any gum disease must be treated, either by scaling and planing (SRP) (deep cleaning) or having a gum graft or bone graft. You will also have to make a concerted effort to take care of your teeth and gums. Therefore, you will need to make it a practice to brush at least twice a day for 2 minutes per session and floss at least once daily. You will need to take care of your implants like your regular teeth to avoid implant failure problems.
Preparing for Implant Surgery
If you have periodontal treatments to prepare for getting implants, you should also prepare in other ways. For example, if you currently smoke, you will need to stop smoking, as the use of tobacco can lead to peri-implantitis. This type of infection leads to gum inflammation and swelling, and eventual implant failure. That is because the use of tobacco causes dry mouth, which can trigger infections. Also, smoking weakens the immune system, affecting the healing time or how long it takes the implants to fuse to the jawbone after surgery.
The Overall Profile of the Perfect Implant Candidate
To receive implants, you should have healthy gums, enough bone to hold the implants in place, and engage in a healthy lifestyle. Therefore, nonsmokers, and people who drink little or no alcohol, experience the greatest success with implant placements. In addition, you should be someone who wants a permanent restoration that will improve your appearance and dentition.
Would you like to know more about implants? If so, give us a call to help you plan a course of therapy that will enable you to receive implants and improve your dental health.
