5 Qualities of a Good Dental Implant Candidate

500,000 people per year are ditching traditional tooth replacement methods for the next best thing to real teeth. A dental implant is unlike any other treatment because it replaces both the root and the crown. With over a 95% success rate, it is an excellent investment in your oral health and quality of life, but is it right for you? Here are 5 qualities of a good dental implant candidate.

1. Good Oral and General Health

Most people with a healthy mouth and body can benefit from dental implants. Your dentist will conduct a comprehensive examination to look for anything concerning, like infections or bone loss. It’s not unusual to need a little prep work, like gum disease therapy. They’ll also review your medical history to look for any issues that could affect your healing. If you have pre-existing conditions, you can still be a candidate for dental implants.

2. A Strong, Healthy Jawbone

A titanium post is surgically placed into your jawbone to mimic a root. It will stimulate new bone growth, allowing your jaw to fuse to it through a process called osseointegration. You must have enough bone to support it. However, you can lose 25% of your jawbone’s density within the first year of missing a tooth, which continues to deteriorate with time. If your dentist finds any weak areas of your jaw, they’ll recommend bone grafting before dental implants.

3. Commitment to Your Oral Hygiene 

A preventable infection called peri-implantitis is a common cause of dental implant failure. A good home oral hygiene routine and regular care from a dentist can safeguard your smile from infections.

4. Healthy Lifestyle Habits

A nutritious diet supports a healthy mouth and body. Besides limiting your sugar intake, your lifestyle habits are equally important. Dental implants may not be right for patients who smoke or drink a lot of alcohol because they can increase your risk of failed osseointegration and infections. Your dentist will suggest kicking the habits to protect your new smile from failure.

5. Ready for a Long-term Solution

Dental implants are a big commitment because they are meant to last for a lifetime. It’s not uncommon for dental implants to thrive for decades with the right aftercare. If you’re ready to stop wasting money on replacements and want to lower your long-term oral health expenses, dental implants are the solution for you.

Whether you’re missing a single tooth or an entire arch, dental implants look and feel natural. It’s never too late to achieve your best smile using the most reliable solution for tooth loss. 

About Dr. Corey Martinez

Dr. Martinez achieved his dental degree at the Indiana University School of Dentistry and has completed education in advanced services, like oral surgery and endodontics. He is a proud member of various professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. If you’re ready to replace your missing teeth, contact our office today to request a consultation.