If you’ve been considering making the investment in dental implants, there are a few things that need to be kept in mind before seeing a dental implant doctor. While getting dental implants used to be quite a complex process, modern designs and technology have expanded the criteria for just which individuals are candidates for such a procedure. Today’s dental implants provide our Tsawwassen, BC patients with one of the best alternatives for replacing missing teeth.

 

Am I Candidate to See a Dental Implant Doctor?

Dr. Jan Roberts recommends that you keep the following in mind if you’re considering dental implants.

Your Natural Teeth Need to be Removed (or are Already Missing)

Implants are used to replace missing teeth. But if you have teeth that are non-restorable, it’s an option to have those removed and replaced with implants as well. However, we typically don’t like to extract teeth that are otherwise healthy or when a less invasive alternative is available (such as a crown.)

You Want a “Permanent” Alternative for Tooth Replacement

Unlike a traditional denture or partial, dental implants typically feature non-removable restorations that are permanently affixed to them. This helps free up space throughout your mouth, making them more comfortable as well as more secure. Your dental implant doctor Dr. Jan Roberts can use an implant to stabilize removable dentures if that is your preference. 

There’s Enough Healthy Bone to Support Them

Bone support is quite possibly the most crucial factor when it comes to determining if our Tsawwassen, BC patients are candidates for dental implants. Because an implant is set directly into the bone, there needs to be enough around it to keep it in place. Extensive bone loss from gum disease or an extended period of time without teeth may require additional grafting before (and if) an implant can be installed.

You’re Dedicated to Treating Them Like Natural Teeth

Getting dental implants isn’t a blank check for ridding yourself of all future oral health problems. Rather, it’s like having “new” teeth all over again. Implants require the same level of home care, ongoing preventative techniques, and regular dental appointments that natural teeth do. While an implant can’t get cavities, the gums around it can develop inflammation and infection if proper brushing and flossing aren’t practiced. This condition known as “peri-implantitis” (the implant form of periodontal disease) can result in failure of the prosthesis if not addressed.

Consider Underlying Health Issues or Tobacco Habits

There are specific medical conditions, medications, and even lifestyle choices that may impede a person’s ability to get dental implants. That doesn’t necessarily mean that implants are not an option, but it may require more detailed planning and follow up care (because of a longer healing process) at Roberts Dental & Facial Rejuvenation to ensure the treatment is a success. As such, it’s important that you (confidentially) disclose any underlying health problems or diagnosis with your dental implant doctor, Dr. Roberts, so that appropriate measures can be taken. You may require a lengthier recovery period or communication with your primary care physician as part of the overall implant treatment.

Find out if dental implants are right for your smile’s needs. Schedule a visit at Roberts Dental & Facial Rejuvenation in Tsawwassen, BC today to get started. Call 604-943-3343 or book online now.