If you are missing one or more of your natural teeth, you may be wondering, “Are dental implants right for me?” Due to recent advancements in technology, the answer is most likely YES! Almost anyone who is missing teeth is a candidate for dental implants.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are posts, usually made of titanium, that serve as replacements for the natural tooth root. The dental implant is placed into the jaw in place of the natural tooth root, so that it can fuse with the jawbone to create a sturdy foundation for the replacement tooth or teeth.
Before dental implants, bridges, dentures, and crowns were the traditional fixes for missing teeth. However, they can be difficult to maintain and they lose their effectiveness over time. Dental implants are often considered the closest you can get to your natural teeth, and they allow you to eat, talk, and smile with confidence.
Want to learn more? Read more and watch videos on our dental implants page!
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Good oral health is vital to the success of dental implants. The health of the gums and jawbone is also important. A candidate for dental implants must have enough bone to support the post. If your tooth has been missing for a while, the surrounding bone may have shrunk. In these cases, Dr. Tin might suggest a bone graft to rebuild the bone for successful placement of the dental implant.
Patients who smoke or use tobacco should be make sure the team at Villa Vista know before initiating a dental implant procedure as tobacco use can slow healing. Patients with chronic illnesses, like diabetes or leukemia, should also be cautious about dental implants as chronic illnesses impact the healing and can cause an increased risk of infection.
If you are considering dental implants, give us a call at Villa Vista Dental today! Dr. Tin will determine if you are a candidate for dental implants and go over the whole process with you.
Call or email us to schedule your appointment today!