Losing a tooth can feel overwhelming. Not only does it leave a gap in your smile, but it can also make chewing and speaking harder. Missing teeth can lead to bigger problems like jawbone loss and shifting teeth. These issues can affect your oral health and change the look of your face.
Whether you’ve lost one tooth, several teeth, or all your teeth, our dentist can help. A personalized tooth replacement plan can restore your smile and improve your oral health. Dental implants are the strongest and best option for many patients. With the right care and planning, they can give you a dependable and natural-looking smile.
However, dental implants are not the best choice for everyone. To find out if implants are right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Dham in Plantation, FL. You can contact the office online or by phone at (954) 251-0640.
What Makes Someone a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Knowing what to expect from dental implants can help you feel more confident when visiting the dentist. Here are some of the key factors your dentist will review when deciding if you’re a good candidate.
A Long-Lasting Tooth Replacement Option
Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth. They can last 20 years or more with proper care. The secret to their strength is the way they fuse with your jawbone. The dentist places a small titanium post, called an anchor, into your jaw. Over time, the bone grows around the post, making it a strong foundation for the replacement tooth.
The custom-made crown or bridge stays in place once the dentist attaches it. Unlike dentures, you can’t remove dental implants without a dentist’s help. This stability means they can handle the same wear and tear as natural teeth.
While many people like the lasting results of implants, others may prefer removable dentures as a more flexible option. Talk to your dentist about your needs and preferences to choose the best solution for you.
Healthy Gums and Jawbone Are Key
You need healthy gums and enough bone to support the implant for it to bond properly with your jawbone. Unfortunately, tooth loss often leads to bone and gum loss over time.
Your dentist will check the health of your jaw and gums to ensure they can handle the implant. They may take X-rays to examine your jaw structure. If you don’t have enough bone or gum tissue, the dentist might recommend a different tooth replacement option. They may also suggest a bone graft procedure to prepare you for implants.
Patience and Commitment
Getting dental implants takes time and several visits to the dentist. First, you’ll attend a consultation to see if you qualify for the procedure. If you’re a good candidate, the dentist will schedule the anchor placement surgery.
After placing the anchor, you’ll need a few months to heal. This healing time allows the bone to grow around the implant and secure it in place. Once healed, you’ll return to the dentist to have the custom-made crown, bridge, or denture attached to the implant post.
This multi-step process requires patience and commitment. However, the end result is well worth the time and effort.
Take the First Step Toward a Restored Smile
Dental implants offer a durable and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. They can improve your oral health, restore your confidence, and make daily tasks like eating and speaking easier. If you’re ready to explore dental implants, contact Dr. Dham’s office in Plantation, FL.
You can schedule an appointment online or by calling (954) 251-0640. Our team will help you decide if implants are the right choice for you and guide you through the process.