How Do Dentists Determine If You’re a Good Candidate for Implants?

how do dentists determine if you’re a good candidate for implants

Wondering if dental implants are right for you? This tooth restoration replaces the missing or damaged tooth. It restores the function and appearance as well as the confidence of the patient. Patients can enjoy natural-looking, long-lasting results with dental implants in SW Calgary. Before proceeding with any therapy, dentists determine whether patients can accept implants.

What Are Dental Implants and Why Are They Popular?

Dental implants are titanium screws inserted into the jawbone to function as the roots of missing teeth. They provide stable and strong support for the crowns, bridges, or dentures. Implants are popular because they look and work like natural teeth and stop the bone loss that dentures cannot.

Compared to other options, implants offer:

  • Long-lasting durability
  • Better chewing ability
  • A natural-looking smile
  • Protection for surrounding teeth

After understanding what implants are, the next step is finding out how a dentist in SW Calgary determines your eligibility for this procedure.

What Makes Someone a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Not everyone is immediately ready for implant surgery. Dental practitioners have a checklist called the Implant Suitability Criteria that helps dentists assess the oral and overall health of each patient and make a recommendation.

Here’s what they typically look for:

  • Healthy gums: Implants are dependent on the support of the gums, so any gum disease should be treated first. 
  • Strong jawbone: A certain amount of bone density is required in order for the implant to be stable. 
  • Good general health: Some diseases, like diabetes and smoking habits, could be the cause of the slow healing process. 
  • An oral hygiene commitment: Daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are the key to the survival of the implant for a long time. 

If any of these areas are deficient, your dentist may recommend some preparatory treatments, such as bone grafting or periodontal therapy, before the actual treatment. 

How Do Dentists Evaluate Implant Suitability Criteria?

The clinical evaluation and imaging technology will characterize the suitability of implants. Your dentist may perform.

  • Digital imaging helps assess bony structures and nerve position.
  • We evaluate your gums for infection or inflammation.
  • Bite analysis to ensure proper alignment and comfort.

Through these tests, your dentist can devise a treatment plan that minimizes risks and increases success.

What Factors Can Affect Implant Success?

Even though they meet the health requirements, other lifestyle and medical factors can influence the healing and stability of implants. Here are some key considerations.

  • Smoking interrupts blood flow, causing slower healing speed.
  • Unmanaged diabetes can first harm the repair of tissues integrated with bone.
  • Bruxism causes additional damage to dental implants.
  • Not having proper mouth hygiene increases the chances of infection, like peri-implantitis.

Your dentist will talk to you about these factors and can suggest ways for you to be ready for the implant with maximum success.

What are the Signs You’re a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Wondering if you qualify right now? If you meet most of the following, you’re likely a good candidate for dental implants.

  • You have one or more missing teeth.
  • You have healthy gums and a strong jawbone.
  • You don’t smoke or are willing to quit before surgery.
  • You’re in good overall health.
  • You maintain proper oral hygiene.

If you are uncertain, it’s best to book a consultation and let your dentist conduct a full assessment.

Why Professional Evaluation Matters?

When an implant is placed in your mouth, it is not just to fill in a gap. It is to ensure your mouth works to full capacity and prevents issues from occurring later on. A trained dentist gets to the root of the problem and draws up the ideal plan.   Skipping the process of evaluation or opting for cheaper and rushed alternatives will lead to implant failure or complications.

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Take the First Step Toward a Confident Smile – Visit Today!

Ready to find out if dental implants are right for you? Book your consultation today at Atlas Dental Centre. A member of our caring team will assess your mouth, ask about your goals, then put together a treatment plan to help you smile again comfortably.

FAQs 

How do I know if I’m a good candidate for dental implants?

You may qualify if your gums are healthy, there is sufficient jawbone, and you are in good health. Your dentist will confirm with X-rays and an exam.

Can dental implants work if I have bone loss?

Absolutely, a bone graft can help make your jaw strong enough to safely support implants. 

What health conditions may prevent me from getting dental implants?

Diabetes, gum disease or heavy smoking can affect healing.  These issues may need to be managed first.

How long does the implant evaluation process take?

One or two visits only; scans, health review, and treatment planning.

Make a Change today.

Call our dental clinic near you at (403) 455-5228 for your Appointment!