When it comes to missing teeth, there are many people who just deal with it for years. You might’ve experienced a few unique challenges since then. It may be harder to eat comfortably or smile confidently, but there are reliable ways to restore these structures. Dental implants are the gold standard, but can you wait too long to get them? Here’s what you should know about your eligibility.
What Exactly Are Dental Implants?
In short, dental implants are posts that are placed and fused to your jawbone. They become a permanent part of your oral anatomy, which helps you enjoy up to 90% of your bite back. That said, your dentist will ensure you are a good candidate before giving you this treatment. There are several things that can get in the way of successful results, such as your oral and overall health, and most importantly, your jawbone density.
So, Have I Waited Too Long to Get Dental Implants?
Since implants are inserted directly into the jaw, there must be a good foundation for this treatment. If you have been missing teeth for a while, then this part might be a bit tricky. The bone can weaken over time because there aren’t any roots to stimulate it. Your body will then take minerals from it to use elsewhere. This can make it risky to place a post, meaning they may feel wobbly or increase your odds of failure.
That said, the good news is that your dentist is here to help! There are ways they can rebuild your jawbone to increase your eligibility. For instance, a bone graft can reinforce the areas that need it most and support the fixture to give you your full bite back.
It will also be important that any dental problems and systemic health conditions are handled beforehand. They can lead to failure or cause other complications, so your provider will want to ensure these are settled as well.
What Can I Do to Become Eligible for Dental Implants?
The only way to know if you are a good candidate for dental implants is by talking to your dentist. They will take a look at your smile to see whether or not they are the right choice for you. For many, they need preliminary treatment, while others might be ready right away.
No matter what, a great way you can prepare for a consultation is by brushing, flossing, and taking care of your overall well-being. That way, there’s a good baseline to learn how to get the full smile you dream of.
About the Practice
At Baltimore Dental Arts, our team is dedicated to helping the local community restore their missing teeth with reliable solutions like dental implants. Led by skilled dentists, we can complete the entire process in-house, meaning you stay with experts you trust every step of the way. If you want to learn how we can help you restore your grin, schedule an appointment or call our office at 410-372-0202.