Learn About Your Suitability for Advanced Tooth Replacement
At My Dentist In Plano, Plano implant dentist, Dr. Darren Dickson is committed to providing personalized and effective dental treatments. Dental implants are often considered the best option for replacing missing teeth, but they’re not suitable for everyone. To determine if you’re a good candidate for dental implants, a thorough evaluation of various factors is necessary.
To schedule a personalized assessment, please contact our Collin County dental practice office at (972) 378-9747 to arrange a consultation with Dr. Dickson.
Key Factors in Dental Implant Candidacy
During your visit to our modern facility in Plano, Dr. Dickson will carefully assess your oral and general health. Here are the main factors that influence your eligibility for dental implants:
- Bone Density: Sufficient jawbone density is crucial for the successful integration of implants. Dr. Dickson uses advanced 3D imaging to evaluate your jawbone’s quality and quantity.
- Periodontal Health: Healthy gums are essential for implant success. We conduct a thorough periodontal examination to ensure your gums are disease-free and capable of supporting implants.
- Overall Health Status: Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or heart disease can affect your ability to undergo implant surgery. A detailed review of your medical history helps identify any potential issues.
- Oral Hygiene Practices: Good oral hygiene is vital for the long-term success of dental implants. Dr. Dickson will evaluate your oral care routine and offer guidance on maintaining implants.
- Age Considerations: While there’s no upper age limit for implants, younger patients must have completed jaw growth before implant placement.
- Financial Preparedness: Dental implants are a significant investment. Our team will discuss financing options to help you make an informed decision.
- Medication Review: Some medications, especially those for osteoporosis, can affect implant integration. A comprehensive review of your medications is necessary.
- Realistic Expectations: We ensure patients understand the potential outcomes and limitations of implant treatment.
- Commitment to Aftercare: Successful implants require diligent aftercare and regular follow-ups. We assess your ability to maintain proper oral hygiene and attend check-ups.
- Lifestyle Factors: Habits like smoking can impact implant success. Dr. Dickson may suggest lifestyle changes to optimize treatment outcomes.
Supplementary Procedures
In some cases, additional procedures may be needed to improve implant candidacy:
- Bone Grafting: For patients with insufficient bone volume, grafting techniques can enhance the jawbone to support implants.
- Sinus Lift: This procedure may be necessary for upper posterior implants to increase bone height in the sinus area.
- Ridge Augmentation: For significant ridge resorption, augmentation can restore the necessary width and height for implants.
Alternative Tooth Replacement Options
If dental implants are not suitable for you, we offer other restorative solutions:
- Conventional Dentures: Full and partial removable dentures can replace missing teeth functionally and aesthetically.
- Dental Bridges: Fixed bridges provide a stable solution for replacing one or more missing teeth in a row.
