If you are on the brink of losing one or more teeth (or have already lost them) and are looking for an excellent replacement, you have surely considered dental implants. They are the gold standard in tooth replacement. To understand if you are a likely candidate, you will need to visit with your dentist or oral surgeon – but to get a good idea beforehand, keep reading for the top five characteristics of a good candidate for dental implants in Jonesboro.
#1 You have healthy gums
One of the most common causes of dental implant failure is gum disease. Excess bacteria in unhealthy gums causes inflammation that prevents the implant from securing to the jawbone. Your dentist will carefully check your periodontal (gum) health to ensure that you are healthy enough to receive dental implants.
#2 You take care of your dental health
Once dental implants have been placed, it is extremely important for the healing process that you follow all post-operative and continuing care guidance from your dentist and oral surgeon. If you are not currently able to commit to brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily, it may be a sign that dental implants are not right for you.
#3 You have enough bone in your jaw
Dental implants need something to secure to. In healthy patients, they gradually fuse with the jaw bone through a process known as osseointegration. If you have been missing teeth for some time, you may have already lost too much bone structure for dental implants to succeed. In these cases, a bone graft can help to create the right environment for your tooth replacement.
#4 You don’t smoke or drink heavily
Perhaps nothing is worse for your oral health than smoking tobacco and drinking alcohol. These habits reduce blood flow to your gums, dramatically slowing the recovery process after implant placement. In the worst cases, full recovery is not possible at all.
#5 You are in good overall health
Dental implantation requires surgically placing the implant post(s) beneath your gums. You will need to be in good health to undergo the procedure. Certain diseases – like diabetes – might challenge your ability to heal after implantation. You will be able to discuss any health concerns with your dentist and/or oral surgeon.
In short, there are a few indicators which will help your dentist determine whether or not you are a good fit for dental implants. In many cases, however, even if one of these apply to you, you may be able to work with a specialist who can help you attain the high-quality tooth replacement you desire.
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Sarah Phillips Yarnell is originally from Lake City. She studied at Lyon College in Batesville and then went on to earn her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Tennessee. She continues to stay up-to-date on the latest in all areas of her practice, including restorative dentistry to help rebuild her patients’ healthy and glowing smiles. To learn more about your implant dentist in Jonesboro or to schedule an appointment, call her practice at (870) 932-8488.