Is a Dental Implant an Option for Me?

Dental implants are widely considered one of the most significant advances in modern dentistry. At our practice, we wholeheartedly agree with that assessment. We see so many patients who are thrilled to have teeth once again. 

While some people believe that implants are for aesthetic purposes, this is not the case. When our dental implants dentist in Encino places an implant, the body goes to work fusing the screw to the jaw bone through a process called osseointegration. Filling the empty tooth socket acts to prevent bone loss and also gives your implanted tooth a secure foundation.

Many patients who come to see our dentist in Encino express concern regarding implants and if they are a good candidate for dental implants. Generally, the answer is yes, but there are several factors which could disqualify a patient from implant surgery.

• Patients who are unwilling or unable to adhere to a regimen of dental care which lasts between three and six months- While each patient heals at their own pace, osseointegration normally takes between three and six months. During this time, excellent oral hygiene is a must. Additionally, patients must receive regular progress checks to monitor the implant.

• Patients who recently received radiation therapy to their neck or head

• Significant bone loss in the jaw- If enough time has passed between the loss of a tooth and attempting a dental implant, it is possible that the jaw bone has deteriorated enough to make an implant impossible.

• Those patients with poorly controlled diabetes- Consistently high blood sugar in diabetics damages their blood vessels and nerves. Properly functioning nerves and blood vessels are needed for the implant to fuse in the bone.

• Unhealthy gums – The success of the implant depends, in part, on the screw fusing to the jaw bone. Healthy gums with proper blood flow are necessary to facilitate osseointegration.

It is important to note that our dentist decides each patients’ eligibility for dental implants on an individual basis. If you would like to learn more about your dental implant options, please contact our office for an appointment. We are happy to evaluate you for implants and answer your questions.