Not every patient with missing teeth is an ideal candidate for a dental implant procedure. Schedule a consultation appointment with your Ashburn, VA dentist. They'll review the
dental implant procedure and assess your health.
Here are a few factors they'll consider to determine which dental solutions suit your needs.
Medical Factors
Talk to your
Ashburn, VA dentist about your medical history. Inform them of any underlying medical conditions you have. Some conditions can impact your healing process after the procedure.
These conditions include:
- Autoimmune disorders
- Bleeding disorders
- Diabetes
Let your dentist know of any medications you're taking. Some medications can interfere with successful implant placement. Others can affect your recovery process.
For example, they may affect bone healing and integration. This process (osseointegration) ensures your implant remains stable within your jawbone.
A crown will sit atop the implant to restore your smile. Your dentist may recommend
CEREC crowns. These crowns allow patients to restore lost teeth in one day.
Let your dentist know if you're taking steroids, immunosuppressants, or anticoagulants. Your dentist may work closely with your primary healthcare provider before your surgery. They may adjust your medication dosages or prescribe alternatives.
Oral Health
You need to maintain excellent oral hygiene to ensure the long-term success of your dental implants. Over 10 years, dental implants have
a success rate of 90 to 95%. Your implant may fail sooner if you don't follow proper oral hygiene practices.
These include:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day
- Flossing daily
- Visiting your dentist every six months
Neglecting your oral hygiene will allow bacteria, saliva, and food particles to mix together. Plaque will form and release acid. Your risk of tooth decay or gum disease could increase.
Both conditions can cause complications. For example, gum disease can cause bone loss in the jaw. You won't have enough bone to hold a dental implant.
They could jeopardize the longevity of your dental implants. If you're not committed to your oral health, you may want to explore other dental solutions.
Jawbone Health
Before receiving
dental implants in Ashborn, your dentist will need to assess your jawbone health. Dental implants need a strong, healthy jawbone for support.
During the procedure, your dentist will surgically place an implant into your jawbone. Over three to six months, bone will grow around the implant. The implant will serve as an anchor for your full mouth dental implants.
You can lose jawbone volume due to trauma or gum disease. Prolonged tooth loss will leave your jawbone without the stimulation it needs. Your jawbone could degrade if you delay seeking treatment.
If you've lost bone density, your dentist may recommend a bone grafting procedure. This procedure can strengthen your jawbone before dental implant surgery.
Lifestyle Factors
Lifestyle factors can affect the success or longevity of your dental implants. Let your dentist know about a heavy smoking habit or tobacco use. Both can hinder your recovery and increase the likelihood of implant failure.
Your dentist may recommend alternative treatments like
dental bridges if you grind your teeth (bruxism). Bruxism could put excess pressure on your implants, leading to failure or complications.
Number of Missing Teeth
During your evaluation, your dentist will consider how many teeth you're missing. Dental implants can replace a single tooth or multiple teeth. However, they may recommend implant-supported bridges or dentures if you're missing multiple teeth.
Your Budget
Dental implants are often more expensive than other options for replacing missing teeth. However, implants are long-lasting and more durable.
Choosing implants over alternatives can save you money in the long run.
Before scheduling your dental implant procedure, consult your insurance provider. Determine if they'll cover a portion of the cost.
Your Expectations
Dental implants look and function like your existing teeth. However, they won't be an exact match. It's important to maintain realistic expectations before scheduling your dental implant procedure.
Having unrealistic expectations could leave you disappointed with the results. Review
this guide to learn more about dental implants. Talk to your dentist about how your implants will look before the procedure.
Your Needs
Consider your needs, personal comfort, and preferences before the procedure. Your dentist can help you review the
reasons to get dental implants.
Perhaps your missing teeth are making you feel self-conscious. You may avoid social settings or start hiding your smile. You could experience psychological effects, including low self-esteem.
Dental implants can restore your smile. You'll feel more comfortable in social settings and experience a confidence boost.
Missing teeth can affect your functionality. You may notice it's difficult to talk, chew, or eat. Some patients lose weight or develop vitamin deficiencies.
An implant will restore these functions. They're more comfortable than dentures and won't slip when you chew. You won't have to worry about food getting trapped in your implant, either.
If you develop a lisp if you're missing teeth. You may notice it's difficult to pronounce certain sounds or words.
An implant will mimic your natural teeth. You'll have an easier time speaking with confidence. Dentures, on the other hand, can make clicking noises when you talk.
If you've experienced these issues, consider getting dental implants.
