Dental implants have become an increasingly popular restorative dentistry option to replace missing teeth. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, dentists surgically insert dental implants into the jawbone. This provides a permanent and secure replacement that looks and functions just like a natural tooth.
If you’re ready to restore your smile with custom solutions, then contact Dr. Thomas F. Brown in Naperville, IL. Dr. Brown and his compassionate team can help you explore all of your options at an in-depth consultation. Schedule yours now at (630) 369-3120!
While dental implants are a great option for many people, not everyone is an ideal candidate for the procedure. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at who is an ideal candidate for dental implants and which preparatory procedures patients can undergo to increase their candidacy.
Who is an ideal candidate for dental implants?
Generally speaking, anyone who is in good oral and overall health is a good candidate for dental implants. However, there are some factors that can affect a person’s candidacy, such as:
- Age: While age itself is not a factor, younger people may have more active jaw growth, which can affect the stability of the implant.
- Oral health: Patients should have healthy gums and enough bone density to support the implant.
- Overall health: Patients should not have any conditions that would affect their ability to heal after surgery, such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders.
- Habits: Patients who smoke or have a history of heavy alcohol consumption may not be ideal candidates.
What preparatory procedures can patients get to increase their candidacy for dental implants?
For patients who don’t initially meet the criteria for dental implant placement, there are several preparatory procedures that can help increase their candidacy. These include:
Dental Bone Grafting
For patients who don’t have enough bone density to support an implant, a bone grafting procedure may be necessary. During this procedure, a dental professional takes donor tissue (either organic or synthetic) and grafts it onto the jawbone, creating a more stable base for the implant.
Sinus Lift
Some patients need implants in the upper back part of the jaw. However, the sinus cavity may not be structurally sound enough to support new implants. Therefore, a sinus lift procedure may be necessary. During this procedure, a skilled surgeon lifts the sinus membrane and grafts donor tissue onto the area, creating a strong base for the implant.
Gum Disease Treatment
For patients with gum disease (which is roughly half of all adults), treatment may be necessary before implants can be placed. This can include scaling and root planing, gum surgery, or other treatments to remove the infection and restore gum health.
Extraction and Socket Preservation
For patients who need a tooth extracted before implant placement, socket preservation can be performed. This involves placing bone grafting material into the empty socket, preserving the bone, and establishing a stable foundation for the implant.
Dental Implants in Naperville, IL
Dental implants are a great option for many people who are missing one, some, or all of their natural teeth. However, not everyone is an ideal candidate for the procedure. If you’re considering dental implants, it’s important to talk to Dr. Thomas F. Brown about your candidacy. Request a consultation online, or call our Naperville dental office at (630) 369-3120 now.