Restoring Smiles: Are Dental Implants for Everyone?

Image source: Groupon.com.au

For many, losing a tooth or several teeth can be a nightmare. Not only can this situation result in inconveniences in their lifestyles, but it can also cause a drop in their self-confidence. For this reason, dentists offer dental implants that allow patients to regain not only their smiles but also their self-esteem.

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root, usually made of titanium, used to support false teeth. The dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone to provide stable support for dentures and bridges, which is especially helpful when eating or speaking.

But is everyone allowed to get dental implants? In most cases, anyone who is healthy enough to undergo routine dental extraction can get a dental implant. Actually, for many patients, the implants are placed after the tooth extraction process.

Of course, patients who want dental implants need to have healthy gums. They also need to be committed to good oral hygiene and regular dental visits since experts agree that implants, just like natural teeth, will last for as long as patients care for them.

People suffering from chronic disorders like diabetes and heart disease should be evaluated on an individual basis.

Image source: PBHS.com

There are instances when a dental implant is not applicable because there’s not enough bone in the jaw to accommodate the implant. In cases like this, bone grafting may be recommended before placing the dental implant.

Dr. John Pasqual is a board-certified surgeon and a diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, an organization that focuses on dental implant research and education. Visit www.pasqualoms.com for more information about dental health.