Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants? Here’s How to Know

If you have missing or damaged teeth, replacing them with dental implants can be a game changer for your oral health and confidence. However, how do you know if you are a good candidate for this treatment? Whether you are curious about your options or are currently dealing with missing teeth, understanding what makes a good candidate for dental implants, like healthy gums, adequate jaw bone density, good oral health, and no tobacco use, can help you make an informed decision for your future.
With over 20 years of experience and a commitment to personalized care, Futch Dental makes every step of your dental journey comfortable and stress-free. Recognized as the Best Dentist in Northern Nevada, we take pride in offering advanced treatments like dental implants to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile. Whether you’re exploring options for missing teeth or seeking expert guidance, you can count on us to provide care tailored to your needs.
5 Signs You Are a Candidate for Dental Implants
Whether you are missing a tooth, a problem an estimated 178 million Americans face, or have severely damaged a tooth from an injury, tooth decay, or gum disease, it is crucial to extract the tooth and replace it to keep your jaw stimulated and maintain your oral health. Dental implants are an excellent option because they are implanted into the jaw bone and topped with a restoration, strengthening the jaw and restoring your smile’s appearance.
However, this treatment may not suit every patient. Our highly qualified team works closely with you to determine if you would make a good candidate for dental implants by looking for the following traits:
Sufficient Jaw Bone Density
Dental implants are placed into the jawbone, so you will need to have adequate bone density in this area to support the implant. At Futch Dental, we use cutting-edge X-ray and imaging technology to capture high-definition images of your mouth and jaw to accurately determine if your jawbone can handle an implant. If you don’t have sufficient jawbone for an implant, you may get a bone graft to add volume to the area.
Healthy Gums
The gums are a support system of the teeth, making them a crucial aspect of maintaining good oral health. Therefore, a good candidate for dental implants has strong, healthy gums. If your gums are receding due to gum disease, you should address the condition with treatments like scaling and root planing or packet reduction surgery before getting implants to ensure your implant and the surrounding tissue stay supported.
Good Oral Hygiene and Health
Maintaining your oral health during and after your dental implant treatment is essential for its success and longevity. Brushing, flossing, and caring for your gums as your implants heal prevents infection from interfering with the process. These habits and regular cleanings after your treatment ensure your implants last as long as possible.
Minimal to No Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding or jaw clenching may result in too much pressure on the implant and risk a failed result. Therefore, patients who do not grind their teeth or do so minimally may be more suited for dental implants.
Non-Smoker
Smoking and using tobacco products can slow down the healing process, preventing implants from properly fusing to the jawbone. If you smoke or use tobacco products, you may still get dental implants, but quitting is essential to ensure smooth healing and a successful result.
Learn More About Dental Implants from the Trusted Team at Futch Dental Today
If you’re exploring options to replace missing or damaged teeth, dental implants may be the long-lasting solution you’ve been searching for. At Futch Dental, we focus on providing individualized care to ensure patients receive treatments tailored to their unique needs and goals. From determining your eligibility to guiding you through the process, we’re here to help every step of the way.
We understand getting a dental procedure can be daunting, so we work closely with you to establish trust and clearly communicate what to expect. Our advanced technology and experienced team allow us to deliver precise, effective care while maintaining a welcoming and stress-free environment. If you’re ready to learn more about how dental implants can restore your smile and improve your quality of life, contact us today at (775) 746-1177 or fill out our contact form.