December 29, 2015

Dental implants are a wonderful innovation that make it possible to return to a sense of normalcy after losing permanent teeth. Although useful, this procedure offered by your general dentist in Denton, TX, is not always suitable for everyone. Dr. Todd McCracken can help you determine if you are a good candidate for implants using this brief guide. 

Density of the Jaw Bone

Because the titanium posts for the implants must be inserted into the jaw bone, it is important for potential candidates to have good bone density. Higher bone density gives the implant a better chance at success. A bone graft may be possible in some cases to restore density. 

Gum Disease Treatment

Before implants can be placed, the mouth needs to be relatively free of gum disease. Also known as periodontitis, gum disease is extremely common. If you are affected by periodontitis, Dr. McCracken will simply have to treat it before moving on with the implant procedure.

Other Areas Affecting Candidacy

It takes time for dental implants to heal, and there are many reasons why an implant can fail. As such, it is important that patients meet as many of the requirements for candidacy as possible. Additional factors that can affect candidacy include:

  • Autoimmune disorders or uncontrolled diabetes
  • Heavy smoking
  • Poor oral hygiene habits
  • Exposure to bisphosphonate medications such as those for cancer treatments

Each of these areas drastically reduces the success rate of an implant. It is vital that patients are committed to taking care of their teeth and to not smoking throughout the procedure, which can sometimes take six months to a year to completely heal.

Find Out If You Are a Candidate Today

There is a lot of work that goes into placing implants, so it is important that your candidacy is confirmed by a general dentist in Denton, TX, to give the procedure the best chance at succeeding. To learn more about the process and schedule a consultation with Dr. McCracken, give Laser Smile Studio a call at (940) 293-2090.

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