Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?
January 27, 2018
If you have missing teeth and want to replace them, Dr. Cieplak offers several valuable options. The trick is to determine which is best for your individual situation, and which will benefit you the most long-term. Dental implants are a valuable tool in restoring a smile and giving back confidence to those who are self-conscious about their current smile, but it’s important to first determine if you will be a good candidate.
How Implants Work
The goal of implants is to have them function exactly as the natural teeth would. The procedure takes several months to complete. Once the tooth is removed, a post is placed in the jaw to eventually hold the implant. Once the jawbone grows around the post, then the implant is placed on top and becomes the same as a natural tooth.
Because implants require quite a bit of work with your bones and gums, the current state of them are very important. Good candidates for dental implants should have the following:
- Good oral health: regular brushing, flossing and exams will keep your teeth healthy enough for implants
- Good gums: the mouth must be free of periodontal disease and gingivitis before implants can be placed
- Good bone density: you must have enough bone to support the implant or it is impossible to place
- Patience: every mouth heals differently, and it can take anywhere from 4-6 months to have the procedure completely done
It is also preferred that the patient be a non-smoker, and any patients with diseases that affect the body’s healing ability should speak to Dr. Cieplak about their condition.
Schedule a Consultation
If you want to know if you are a good candidate for implants, we encourage you to set up a consultation with a dentist in Oxon Hill, MD, such as Dr. Cieplak. Because every mouth is unique, it’s impossible to make a decision without a professional opinion. Contact Cieplak Dental Excellence today to schedule an appointment.