Are Dental Implants Right for Me?
Platte City, MO
Dental implants are a treatment designed to replace missing teeth. They provide a unique alternative to traditional bridges and dentures, using small titanium posts to provide support for your replacement teeth. The posts are surgically implanted into your jawbone, where the bone then fuses to them. This is a process called osseointegration. It occurs gradually as you heal, turning the posts into secure, permanent replacement roots that hold your new teeth in place. While implants have a high success rate, it is important to determine if you are a candidate before undergoing implant surgery. Platte Valley Dental Care can help.
Are You Missing Teeth?Dental implants are designed to replace missing teeth. They provide a unique alternative to traditional bridges and dentures. Implants are also incredibly versatile. There are many different types of implant treatments available, including treatments to replace a single tooth, several teeth, or an entire arch.
How is Your Health?Because implants require a surgical procedure, you need to be in good overall health. During your initial consultation, we review your medical history and go over any medications you are currently taking. Chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease can affect the success of dental implants if they are not under control. We also perform a thorough oral exam with an intraoral camera. Any issues such as gum disease or cavities will need to be treated before surgery can be performed.
Do You Drink or Smoke?Drinking and smoking can both affect the success of your treatment, leading to complications, both during surgery as well as during your recovery. Excessive alcohol consumption can affect blood clotting, which can then lead to bleeding issues. Smoking and other tobacco products may limit oxygen in your blood and slow blood flow. These issues slow your recovery, increasing your risk of infection. At the same time, tobacco products can also impede your immune system, preventing it from effectively fighting off infections.
Is Your Jawbone in Good Shape?One of the major benefits of dental implants is that the posts restore stimulation to your jawbone, which aids in preserving the integrity of the bone. However, if you have lost too much bone mass before your consultation, your jawbone may not be strong enough to support any posts placed in it. This affects osseointegration, which can then lead to implant failure. If your jawbone is too weak, a bone graft may be required first. This surgical procedure restores strength to your jawbone, increasing the success of your treatment. For those missing an entire arch of teeth, the All-on-4® Treatment Concept can provide you with dental implants without the need for a bone graft.
Is Age a Factor?Many people who suffer tooth loss are older individuals. Many older adults think that just because they are seniors that they are not eligible for implants. This could not be further from the truth. You are never too old to enjoy the benefits that dental implants have to offer. No matter how old you are, we can help to determine if implants are the best solution for you.
If you are missing teeth, dental implants can provide you with an incredible, long-term solution that restores the functions of your teeth and the quality of your smile, all while preserving the integrity of your jawbone. To schedule your consultation, and find if dental implants are safe for you, call Platte Valley Dental Care today at (816)858-2027. |
