Are implants right for you? A Quiz from Your Implant Dentist

If you are missing teeth and are researching restorative dentistry, you have no doubt heard of dental implants. Implants are considered the gold-standard of tooth replacement, thanks to their remarkable durability and lifelike appearance. Plus, when you visit an implant dentist, you can enjoy better oral health, since the implants can prevent bone shrinkage and further tooth loss.

Wondering if you are a candidate for dental implants? Take our quiz to find out if this treatment may be right for you. Then visit Chisholm Trail Smile Center. Dr. Matthew Bridges will honestly assess your candidacy based on your oral and physical health.

1. How many teeth are you missing?

No matter how many teeth you have lost, implants may be appropriate for you! Dental implants can support many types of restorations, including a single crown, a dental bridge, or a full denture. They are suitable for both the upper and lower dental arches.

2. Are you willing to undergo oral surgery?

You should only choose dental implants if you are willing to have surgery. During the first stage of treatment, an oral surgeon will place the implant posts in your jawbone. Once your jaw has healed, and the implants have integrated with your bone tissue, you will return to your implant dentist who will attach your restoration.

Fortunately, Dr. Bridges will refer you to a skilled local expert who will perform a precise procedure with minimal discomfort and a brief recovery time. According to one study, the most prominent side effect is swelling. Swelling will typically subside within five days, although women may have a slightly longer recovery time than men.

3. Do you suffer from periodontal disease?

One of the most significant consequences of periodontal disease is gum recession. When gum disease is left untreated, the soft tissues will pull away from dental implants, and the posts won’t have enough support.

In many cases, however, appropriate periodontal care can restore your candidacy for implants. Although you will have a slightly higher risk of implant failure, the treatment is quite successful. Periodontitis patients have a 79.2% to 100% rate of implant survival over 1.2 to 16 years. In contrast, patients without gum disease have a 91.67% to 100% survival rate over the same period.

4. Have you been wearing dentures a long time?

If you have been missing teeth for many years, you have likely suffered a significant degree of jawbone loss. As a result, you may not currently have enough healthy tissue to support implant posts. Nonetheless, many patients qualify for bone grafting. In this procedure, an oral surgeon can restore lost tissue and create a sound foundation for implant posts.

5. Do you have any chronic health conditions?

Some long-term health conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, cancer, blood clotting disorders, and autoimmune disorders can make it difficult to heal from surgery. Additionally, certain medications can impact healing. Your implant dentist will discuss your medical history at your consultation. Although you may still qualify for implants, your surgeon will need to work in conjunction with your physician to assure your safety and wellbeing.