Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants Port St. Lucie, FL
Most people are candidates for dental implants and their benefits. The dental implants procedure is a tooth restoration that involves inserting implant posts into the jaw to support a dental prosthesis. However, certain aspects of a person's oral health can determine whether they can receive dental implants or not.
Dental implant restoration is available at St Lucie Center for Cosmetic Dentistry in Port St. Lucie and the surrounding area. Dentists often recommend dental implants after performing a comprehensive evaluation of the patient. Call us today at (772) 242-4124 to book an appointment or learn more about our services.
An Overview of Dental Implants
According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, more than three million Americans have dental implants, and the number continually grows by approximately 500 thousand each year. Dental implants are small titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone to serve as the root of a replacement tooth. The titanium posts are later topped with the replacement tooth or teeth usually in the form of a crown, bridge, or denture.
Individuals with missing or severely damaged teeth can achieve a more attractive smile and restore their oral health and function to an ideal level through dental implants. Unlike with dentures, there are no messy gluing and cleaning procedures and they do not have to be taken out at night. They are the tooth replacement option that most closely resembles the function of natural teeth.
“Individuals with missing or severely damaged teeth can achieve a more attractive smile and restore their oral health and function to an ideal level through dental implants.”
How Dentists Determine Candidates for Dental Implants
When patients visit the dental office, the dentist will perform a thorough examination to determine if the condition of their oral health may result in dental implant complications. Our dentist may recommend the proper treatment to restore good oral health and a patient's dental implant candidacy if any issues are detected.
When determining whether a patient can safely and effectively receive dental implants, the dentist may consider the patient's overall wellbeing during the initial consultation for dental implants. Since the treatment requires surgery, the patient needs to be healthy to undergo the procedure. Also, certain conditions may affect the way the bone heals around the implant and the long-term success of the procedure, including:
- Cardiovascular conditions
- Diabetes
- Excess alcohol intake
- Medications such as NSAIDs, antidepressants, and bisphosphonates
- Smoking
Patients must complete treatment for any preexisting condition to prevent infection during the implant procedure.
“Patients must complete treatment for any preexisting condition to prevent infection during the implant procedure.”
Factors That Enable Patients to Receive Dental Implants
Healthy Gums
Having healthy gums is crucial to a patient being able to receive dental implants. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults and is, therefore, one of the most common inhibitors to being eligible for dental implants. Periodontal diseases damage the gum and jawbone supporting the teeth. Since dental implants integrate with the jawbone, any infection that affects the gum may also jeopardize the jawbone. There is a high risk of implant failure in patients with uncontrolled or untreated gum disease. Until the condition is under control, the dentist will not recommend getting dental implants.
Sufficient Bone Density
Aside from healthy gums, having healthy bone density is also crucial to dental implant candidacy. Bone density affects the condition of the jawbone. Jawbone health is crucial because it provides primary support for the implant. Without proper reinforcement from a strong bone, the implant restoration may come loose. The dentist will examine the jawbone to ensure it has the strength and density to hold an implant. Jawbone deterioration may follow advanced gum disease, causing erosion of healthy bone structure or tooth loss, when the jawbone stops receiving stimulation due to tooth loss. Fortunately, the dentist can use a bone graft to boost the strength and integrity of the jawbone.
“Aside from healthy gums, having healthy bone density is also crucial to dental implant candidacy.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants in Port St. Lucie, FL
The Procedure
A dental implant procedure can take many months because it involves multiple procedures that require healing time in between. Exactly how long and how many procedures will depend on the patient's unique situation. For example, patients who need bone grafting can expect the process to take longer.
Overall, patients undergo a series of outpatient procedures, typically starting with removal of damaged teeth or any bone grafting needed to prepare the jaw. Then, the dental titanium post is placed and the patient must recover after that procedure. It is important to give the jawbone ample time to heal around the post. The final step is the placement of the replacement tooth or teeth in the form of a crown, bridge or permanent denture.
“Exactly how long and how many procedures will depend on the patient’s unique situation.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. How long does the implant procedure take?
Q. How do dentists determine whether a patient is a candidate for dental implants?
Q. What factors enable a patient to receive dental implants?
People Also Ask
Q. What happens during the implant placement surgery?
Q. What dental treatments are possible in a smile makeover?
Q. How can I make the most of my dental implant consultation?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What happens if I have crooked or crowded teeth but need dental implants?
A. Crowded or crooked teeth can prevent a person from receiving dental implants successfully. Fortunately, patients can receive dental treatments such as tooth extraction to create space to place the implants. In addition, patients with crooked teeth may need teeth straightening treatment to align their teeth.
Q. Is there an age limit to getting dental implants?
A. Dental implants are suitable for adults with permanent teeth. Although older patients can get implants, they may not have the required bone density to support an implant, especially if they have worn dentures for long. In such cases, a mini dental implant may be the more appropriate option since the metal post is shorter and needs less bone structure.
Q. Can I still receive dental implants if I wear dentures?
A. The dentist may be able to support your dentures with dental implants. Implant-supported restorations are usually stronger and fitting than regular dentures. It will also prevent further jawbone resorption, which is common with denture wearers.
Q. How long does it take to receive dental implants?
A. The number of implants determines the duration of treatment. It may take about an hour to complete the placement. There is a waiting period during which the bone heals. Once osseointegration is complete, the dentist will complete the final restoration in no time.
Q. Are there any risks associated with dental implant placement?
A. Like any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated. Issues are rare, and are usually minor and easily treatable should they occur. Such risks include infection, injury or damage to the surrounding oral structures, sinus issues, and nerve damage.
Scan here to view this page, Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants, on mobile
Dental Implant Terminology
Call Us Today
We are here to help patients make the right decision about treatment and determine if they are a good candidate for dental implants. If you are interested in learning more about dental implants treatment, then call us at 772-242-4124. We can schedule a time for you to come in for a visit. We can determine what your oral health needs for a healthy and bright smile.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
About our business and website security
- St Lucie Center for Cosmetic Dentistry was established in 1984.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: St. Lucie County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Port St. Lucie, River Park, White City, Fort Pierce, Fort Pierce South, St Lucie West, Tradition, Palm City, Jensen Beach, and Stuart
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Scan here to open directions to St Lucie Center for Cosmetic Dentistry on mobile
Back to top of Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants
Related Posts
General Dentistry: The Risks Of Untreated Tooth Decay
A lot of general dentistry care is focused on the prevention of tooth decay. It is a common issue, and one that can be reversible in the early stages; however, if left untreated, it can become serious. Knowing the signs of tooth decay and understanding the risks of not giving it the proper care can…
When Your Child Should See A General Dentist
General dentistry is essential for good oral health at every age. Some parents assume that children do not need routine dental care until permanent teeth start to arrive. However, children of all ages should see a dentist on a regular basis. Parents must also be mindful of their child's tooth and gum development and check…
Adult Braces In Port St. Lucie, FL
Many people believe that orthodontic treatment is only for children and teenagers, but that is simply not the case. If fact most of our clear braces patients are adults. Adult treatment can be more complicated with missing teeth, periodontal disease, and significant wear being more prominent in this age group, but it can be more…
General Dentistry Options To Treat Gum Disease
Gum disease, which is also known as periodontitis, is common, and there are various treatment methods available in general dentistry. There are three phases of this disease, and if it is caught and treated during the early phase, it is reversible. Treatment is much easier and less invasive early on, even before symptoms appear, which…
How To Find A Dentist In A New Town
Anyone who moves to a new town must find a dentist as soon as possible to continue the maintenance necessary for a healthy mouth. Taking time to research the options available through various sources can ensure a long-term relationship with a knowledgeable dental professional.The steps for finding dental services are similar to those necessary for…
Explore additional topics covered on our website:
Call Us Today
Scan here to call St Lucie Center for Cosmetic Dentistry on mobile
