Dental implants offer a long-lasting solution for missing teeth, restoring function, aesthetics and confidence. However, not everyone is an immediate candidate for implants. Several factors determine whether you qualify for treatment and whether implants are the right option for your needs.
Find Out If Dental Implants Are Right for You!
Who is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
You may be a candidate for implants if:
- You are missing at least one tooth.
- You do not smoke or you are willing to stop smoking.
- You find it difficult to wear a removable prosthesis.
- You do not have any health conditions that could affect bone healing.
- You have enough bone tissue to secure the dental implants or are willing to have a bone graft to build up the areas that are inadequate.
- You have healthy gum tissue.
- Your jawbone is finished growing.
- You would like to improve your speech.
- You can commit to the dental implant process, which can take several months.
When Are Dental Implants Recommended?
Dental implants are an excellent option for individuals who are missing one or more teeth due to decay, trauma or periodontal disease. They provide a stable and durable alternative to traditional bridges or dentures. You may be a good candidate for implants if you struggle with removable prosthetics, experience difficulty chewing or speaking due to missing teeth or want a more natural-looking and permanent restoration.
Your overall oral health plays a crucial role in implant candidacy. You should have healthy gums and sufficient jawbone density to support the implant. If bone loss has occurred, a bone graft may be necessary to ensure a stable foundation. Additionally, your jawbone must be fully developed, making implants a better option for adults rather than children or teenagers whose jaw structure is still changing.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants provide several advantages over traditional tooth replacement options. Unlike dentures, which can shift or cause discomfort, implants integrate with the jawbone, offering a secure and natural-feeling solution. This integration helps maintain bone density, preventing the jawbone deterioration that often occurs with tooth loss.
Functionally, implants restore chewing ability, allowing you to eat a wide variety of foods without concern. They also improve speech clarity, which can be affected by missing teeth or ill-fitting dentures. Aesthetically, implants closely resemble natural teeth, enhancing your smile and overall facial appearance.
Types of Dental Implants
There are several types of dental implants, depending on your specific needs. Endosteal implants are the most common and involve placing a titanium post directly into the jawbone. Subperiosteal implants sit on top of the bone but beneath the gum tissue and may be recommended for patients with insufficient bone structure. All-on-4® implants provide a full-arch restoration with fewer implant posts, making them an ideal solution for patients who need complete tooth replacement.
Schedule Your Consultation!
Call Dental Implant Center of Oklahoma today at (918) 906-2525 and schedule your complimentary consultation with our board certified dental implantologist, Dr. Chris Ward, and learn if you are a candidate for dental implants in Tulsa, Oklahoma.