Refer a Patient
Do you want to undergo the dental implant process but don’t want to get your hopes up before you know whether they’re the right choice for you? The first step you need to take to find out if you’re a good dental implant candidate is contact your dentist and schedule an initial consultation. During your appointment, they’ll be keeping an eye out for these five traits listed below. If you don’t check all of the boxes right now, that doesn’t mean that dental implants aren’t for you! It just means that you might need some preparatory treatments before you can undergo the surgery.
Having Healthy Gums
Just like with your teeth, your gums are a crucial foundation that will keep your implants healthy by supporting them in place. If plaque and tartar has accumulated along your gumline, it means that there is an excess of harmful oral bacteria in your mouth. This can lead to a higher risk of implant failure if it’s not taken care of before your surgery. If your dentist notices inflammation or signs of gum disease, they’ll likely suggest periodontal therapy before implant treatment.
Committed To Maintaining Your Oral Health
Your implant-retained restorations need to be taken care of just like your natural teeth, or else they’re at a higher risk of failing. When you get dental implants, you need to be committed to brushing twice each day, flossing daily, rinsing with antimicrobial mouthwash each day, and visiting your dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings. That way, you can get the most out of your new restorations.
Sufficient Jaw Bone Density
Dental implants have the ability to naturally fuse with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration once they’re placed. This is a crucial moment in the process, and without a dense enough jawbone, they may not have a strong enough foundation to support them. This could lead to loose and shifting implants that aren’t fully functional. If you have suffered from bone loss due to having missing teeth, then you may be able to undergo a bone graft before your treatment to strengthen it.
Don’t Have Chronic Illness
Having autoimmune diseases can impact your mouth’s ability to heal after your implant surgery by putting you at a greater risk for developing an oral infection or healing too slowly. Other chronic conditions, such as heart disease and sleep apnea can also cause complications during the surgery with anesthesia, which is why it’s crucial to consult with your dentist about your medical history.
Willing To Quit Bad Oral Habits
In order to enjoy your dental implants in Friendship Heights, you’ll need to quit bad oral habits like smoking and chewing tobacco. These are known to increase your risk of implant failure by affecting the bloodflow to your mouth and oral tissues, which can result in a slowed healing process.
During your initial consultation, you’ll be able to speak with your dentist more in-depth to understand just why these traits are important for a great dental implant candidate. They’ll walk you through the process and help you understand the importance of starting out with a healthy mouth.
About the Author
Dr. Yelena Obholz is a highly skilled and dedicated dentist who’s passionate about rebuilding and renovating her patient’s smiles so they can feel proud to let them show. She has completed advanced training in periodontics and oral surgery during her residency in Woodhull Hospital in Brooklyn, NY. She specifically specializes in dental implant treatment, which allows her patients to regain the natural look and feel of their entire smile. For questions or to schedule a consultation, visit Aesthetic & Family Dentistry Specialists’ website or call 202-364-8989.