4 Issues That Can Keep You from Getting Dental Implants (+ How to Fix Them!)

Are you missing one, a few, or an entire arch of teeth? Then you are not alone. In fact, 120 million Americans are missing at least one tooth! Years prior, dental issues like this would involve restorations that were high maintenance and obvious. Fortunately, patients today can opt for the latest dental implants that are durable, natural-looking, and prevent your jawbone from deteriorating. However, potential candidates need to meet a few qualifications to be eligible. Read on for the issues that can keep you from getting dental implants in Torrance and how your dentist can help!

#1. Insufficient Bone Density

Dental implants offer patients unmatched durability since they are inserted into your jawbone (instead of resting on your gums). Therefore, candidates need to have a sufficient amount of bone density for the procedure to be successful in the short and long-term. If this requirement is not met, then your dentist may recommend undergoing a bone graft before moving forward with dental implants.

#2. Unhealthy Gums

Your gums play a crucial role in protecting the root of your tooth and holding your teeth firmly in place. However, if you have gum disease, the harmful bacteria present in your mouth can impede the healing process and cause the implant site to become infected. Fortunately, your dentist can help you by conducting periodontal therapy (i.e., scaling and root planing, antibiotic therapy, etc.). From there, you can discuss moving forward with dental implants.

#3. Poor Dental Habits

From smoking to teeth grinding, poor dental habits can wreak havoc on your oral health. While these behaviors always pose a risk, they are especially hazardous for patients with dental implants. After all, the use of tobacco products inhibits your mouth’s ability to heal properly and conditions like teeth grinding can lead to fractured dental implants. Therefore, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination and screening at your initial consultation to ensure a plan is in place to treat poor dental habits like these.

#4. Unwillingness to Commit to a Solid Oral Hygiene Routine

Compared to other tooth replacement alternatives, dental implants are low maintenance since they don’t necessitate extensive food restrictions or special cleaning solutions. That being said, it is important that they are taken care of properly by brushing them twice a day, flossing daily, and attending biannual visits with your dentist. If patients are unable or unwilling to commit to a solid oral hygiene routine, then they are at risk for short and long-term dental implant failure. To prevent this from happening, your dentist will provide you with product recommendations to make taking care of your oral health easy and effective.

To preserve its impressive 95% success rate, dentists take extensive measures to qualify potential candidates beforehand. However, it is important to remember that most situations can be addressed to get patients in a position to have dental implants. So, if you have one or more missing teeth, talk to your dentist today!

About the Practice

At Blue Coast Dental Group, their top-notch team uses their extensive background, genuine care for their patients, and the latest technology to deliver world-class service. Plus, they have a general dentist, prosthodontist, and periodontist under one roof! So, whether you need a routine cleaning or tooth replacement procedure, they are ready to help. If you are considering dental implants, visit their website or give them a call at 310-424-3100.