Issues That Can Prevent You from Getting Dental Implants

More than 500,000 Americans every year are investing in dental implants to replace their lost teeth. A dental implant is the most preferred method of treating tooth loss because it mimics both the tooth root and the crown. With over a 95% success rate, they are a smart investment that can last for 30 years or longer with the correct care, like brushing and flossing. Most people with good oral health and overall wellness can benefit from dental implants. However, here are a few issues that may prevent you from getting dental implants. 

Gum Disease

Your gums must be healthy to benefit from dental implants. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 50% of adults have a form of gum disease, so it isn’t a highly unusual situation. It isn’t uncommon to require gum disease treatment before your placement surgery. 

Poor Oral Hygiene

Dental implants can’t get cavities, but brushing and flossing are essential for the overall success of your procedure. A preventable infection called peri-implantitis is a leading cause of dental implant failure. 

Improving your oral hygiene habits will keep your gums healthy to ensure the long-term success of your new smile. 

Bone Loss

Losing a tooth can cause your jaw to shrink by 25% within the first year. It will continue to deteriorate as time passes because it isn’t being stimulated by the tooth root. Dental implants require a strong jawbone. Your implants must fuse with your jaw through a process called osseointegration, which can fail if you’ve experienced bone loss. 

Your implant dentist can strengthen your jaw with bone grafting. Although it adds another step to your treatment, it will ensure your new smile has a strong foundation. 

Health Conditions and Medications

If you have pre-existing conditions, like heart disease or diabetes, you may be a candidate for dental implants. Your dentist will learn more about your health history and the medications you take because some can affect healing and increase the risk of infections. They can create a personalized plan to safely and effectively replace your lost teeth.

Irregular Dental Care

Regular dental care is vital for the overall success of dental implants. The American Dental Association recommends scheduling a cleaning and checkup every 6 months. Your dentist will keep your mouth healthy and check your implants at each appointment to detect anything concerning while it is small, like gum inflammation. With quick detection and treatment, your new smile can last for decades. 

Your dentist will examine your mouth and review an X-ray to determine if dental implants are the right choice for you. They’ll help you fill the gaps in your smile using the latest solutions in dentistry. 

About Dr. Jason Tubo

Dr. Tubo earned his dental degree at the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine and has completed advanced training in implant dentistry. He is affiliated with several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (508) 731-8763.