Dental Implants: Who’s A Good Candidate?
Fun fact: Did you know that our forefathers used dentures that were made up from a combination of hippopotamus ivory, human bones and fasteners made of metal to replace their missing teeth. Luckily, with advances in technology and medicine, we have more comfortable and less creepy options to choose from today.
Almost 70% of adults from the ages of 35 to 45 years are missing at least one tooth. In Fact, it is very common to experience tooth loss, after all, 1 out of 4 people 75 years and older are missing all, if not the majority of their teeth. As you can see, a fair amount of individuals are similar to you or someone you know, and it is nothing to be ashamed of. However, missing teeth can impact your overall health and even your self-esteem.
Seeking to get replacements after your choppers have bit the dust can help to bolster that self-esteem and create a healthier option for the rest of your overall health. Missing any tooth can cause your health to decline. Exposed gums are easy targets for food and bacteria to get stuck on and if not properly cleaned, these bits can lead to infections, gum disease, and possible tooth decay, which have all been linked to heart disease and diabetes.
Having gaps in your teeth can cause remaining teeth to shift, which over time can lead to the structure of your jaw to change. Dental implants and dentures are a great way to help give you back that confidence in your smile and keep your health intact!
When considering if you would make a good candidate for dental implants, remember that good candidates typically have healthy gums and are old enough for their jaw to have matured. Also having enough bone to anchor and support the implant makes it easier, but it is not the final decision since bone can be rebuilt through grafting technologies. It is always a wise decision to seek out a consultation with your dentist or a specialist. Having their opinions, especially after examining your mouth, will help to determine the right path for you. During your consultation, your doctor may go over some issues that can pose a risk to getting dental implants. Some of those risks may be people with:
• Cancer
• Smoking
• Alcoholism/ substance abuse
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Uncontrolled gum disease
Dental implants are the permanent option for teeth replacement and they have had an increase in popularity over the past few years. They may cost a little more, but they may save you money over time by lasting longer and being easier to maintain. They look a little more natural than dentures and you will not have to worry about them falling out during social outings.
If you are interested in learning more about dental implants, and looking for Orlando root canal specialists, schedule an appointment today with Mark Dreyer, DMD and his team today! We look forward to helping you in your dental journey.