Generally speaking, if you have lost teeth you are a candidate for dental implants. It is important that you are in good health, however, as there are some conditions and diseases that can affect whether dental implants are right for you. For example, uncontrolled diabetes, cancer, radiation to the jaws, smoking, alcoholism, or uncontrolled periodontal (gum) disease may affect whether dental implants will fuse to your bone. It is important to know all about your medical status (past and present) together with all medications you are taking, whether prescribed, alternative (herbal) or over-the-counter.
Where and how implants are placed requires a detailed
assessment of your overall stomato-gnathic system, within which the teeth
function. This will necessitate compiling records that include study models of
your mouth and bite, and specialized radiographs (OPG x-rays), which may
include 3D scans known as computerized tomograms (CBCT scans). Planning with
the help of computer imaging ensures that dental implants can be placed in
exactly the right position in the bone.
But not everyone is a viable candidate for implants, and
ironically the reason most often has to do with the bone. If a patient has
suffered significant bone volume loss, either because of disease or the
long-term absence of the natural teeth, there may not be enough bone to
properly support an implant. Unless we can adequately restore this lost bone
volume through grafting. If you are not a good candidate for dental implants,
consider bridgework or removable denture.
Read More FAQ – All About Dental Implant
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