Exploring Candidacy for Dental Implants

Your Initial Consultation

During your first visit, the doctor will perform a full assessment of your gums and existing teeth. To evaluate the supporting jawbone, scans and x-rays will be taken. Advanced diagnostic imaging helps the doctor assess bone health and determine the most appropriate locations for the implant posts.

To receive implants, patients must have satisfactory periodontal health and an adequate amount of jawbone tissue, as well as make healthy lifestyle choices.

For example, in order for implants to be successful long-term, they must be completely surrounded by dense bone tissue. They must also be placed far enough away from the maxillary sinuses and the mandibular nerves. Our 3D cone beam scanner can help the doctor analyze these areas for accurate treatment. 

Best Candidates for Implants

In order to qualify for dental implants, patients should meet a few criteria. These include:

• Adequate bone density: An implant requires a solid foundation. Therefore, if there is insufficient jawbone structure, implants will not last long-term. Patients considering this treatment option should have healthy, strong bone tissue. 
• Good overall health: Individuals seeking implant treatment should not have any serious medical conditions, particularly diseases that could inhibit the body’s natural healing function. 
• Healthy gums: Patients should be completely free from gum disease. When an oral infection is present, it can seriously hinder the long-term success of implants. 
• Commitment to proper oral hygiene: Implants are impervious to decay, but they are still vulnerable to periodontal disease. Therefore, patients must be willing to practice excellent at-home care and maintenance, brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily. 

Prerequisite Procedures

In some cases, patients may require a preparatory procedure before the implants can be placed. These treatments may include:

• Periodontal care: Implants cannot be placed if gum disease is present. If infection and bacteria are compromising your smile, periodontal treatments will need to be performed first. For mild cases of gum disease, nonsurgical scaling and root planing can be completed. This will sweep away harmful microbes and provide a healthy foundation for your new implant posts. 
• Bone grafting: Some patients may lack adequate bone structure, making dental implant placement unpredictable. Regenerative therapies such as bone grafts and sinus lifts help to rebuild bone density and prepare the jaw for implant posts.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Compared to alternative teeth replacement options, dental implants offer many benefits and serve as a long-lasting and reliable solution. While traditional bridges last about 10 to 15 years on average, implants can last a lifetime with appropriate care. In addition, implants preserve the natural bone structure. When a tooth is lost or extracted, the root no longer stabilizes the jawbone. As a result, bone degradation can occur over time. However, placing an implant in the area stimulates the nerves in the jaw just like a natural tooth root, effectively protecting the bone.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you are considering dental implants as a teeth replacement option, you can explore your candidacy and financing and insurance options by scheduling a consultation at Stubbs Dental. Contact us online or call us at our Bountiful, Murray, Lehi, or Layton office.