Dental implants could be the solution you’ve been looking for to replace your lost teeth. However, the procedure often strikes people as complicated, with extensive criteria to meet in order to be eligible.
That couldn’t be further from the truth. Many people qualify for dental implants, and we’re here to help you find out if you’re one of them. Bayshore Family Dental has put together a guide to finding out your eligibility. If you check off some (or all) of these boxes, it’s time to book a consultation for dental implants in Dunedin.
1. How’s Your Health?
While dental implants are a highly successful procedure, they do involve minor oral surgery. For this reason, you need to be generally in good health.
Chronic conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune diseases can affect the healing process and the success of implants. But don’t worry—if you manage your health condition well or are healthy overall, you’re likely a great candidate for implants.
Pro Tip
If you’re unsure whether your medical history might affect your candidacy for dental implants in Dunedin, consult our dentist or your primary care doctor for guidance.
2. What’s Your Jawbone Density?
Dental implants need a solid foundation to anchor into, which means sufficient jawbone density is crucial. If you’ve experienced significant bone loss due to missing teeth or gum disease, you may still qualify with the help of a bone graft procedure.
Did You Know?
Studies show that you can lose about 30% of bone volume in your alveolar ridge (where your tooth sockets are) after losing a tooth. That’s why dentists often stress how urgent it is to address tooth loss.
3. How Do Your Gums Look?
Healthy gums are essential for dental implant success, as your gums play a key part in supporting the implant. Gum disease, if untreated, can compromise the implant placement and stability. If you currently have gum disease, our dentist can treat it first before proceeding with dental implants in Dunedin.
Pro Tip
Incorporating regular flossing and professional cleanings into your routine can help ensure your gums stay healthy.
4. Do You Smoke?
Smoking can significantly reduce the success rate of dental implants as it slows the healing process and affects bone integration. One study found that smokers have a 140.2% higher risk of implant failure than non-smokers. If you’re already a non-smoker or willing to quit, you’re in a much better position to qualify for implants.
Reminder
Quitting smoking not only improves oral health but also has a profound positive impact on your overall well-being.
5. Are You Committed to Your Oral Hygiene?
Dental implants require proper care to last. Candidates must commit to maintaining excellent oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and attending dental checkups at Bayshore Family Dental. Think of implants as an investment in your smile that deserves consistent care.
Quick Fact
With proper maintenance, dental implants can last for decades or even the rest of your life, making them a long-term solution compared to other options like dentures.
6. Are You Worried About Premature Aging?
Tooth loss can prematurely age your face, causing sunken cheeks and jawbone deterioration. If this describes your experience, our Dunedin dental implants could restore not only your smile but also your facial structure.
Example
Replacing lost teeth with implants can help fill out your face by restoring structure and density, giving you back a more youthful appearance.
7. Feeling Self-Conscious About Tooth Loss?
Are you constantly covering your smile or avoiding social situations because of missing teeth? If tooth loss has impacted your confidence, dental implants can be life-changing. Since they look so natural, you’ll feel comfortable smiling, eating, and talking again.
Insight
The American Dental Association (ADA) reports that 30% of Floridians feel embarrassed and avoid smiling due to the condition of their teeth. You’re not alone, and you have options.
8. Is Chewing or Speaking a Challenge?
Missing teeth can make everyday actions like chewing and speaking much harder. Dental implants restore the full functionality of your teeth, so you can eat the foods you love and speak clearly without hesitation.
Research
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), severe tooth loss could make it harder to have a healthy diet, since you can’t easily eat fruits, vegetables, and protein. Restore the health of your body and your smile with our dental implants in Dunedin.
Find Out for Yourself if You’re a Candidate
Do you see yourself in the list above? Then our Dunedin dental implants could be the solution you’ve been looking for to restore your confidence, oral health, and quality of life. It’s time you smiled confidently again. Book an implant consultation at Bayshore Family Dental today.
