Dental implants are the perfect way to replace a missing tooth.
They are practical, undetectable and hassle-free.
However, not everyone will be eligible for the procedure. The following are some of the qualities that we look for.
As always, it is important to note that these are not prescriptive, and it is always worth a consultation with us in person to determine whether dental implants are right for you.
Call us on 020 8224 7562.
One of the main features we will look for in a candidate is healthy teeth and gums.
This is because the implant relies partially on the gums to be held in place. This requirement also expands into one’s general health.
For example, we are more likely to operate on those who are non-smokers, do not suffer from an autoimmune disorder and who do not have uncontrolled diabetes.
Another important factor when discussing implants is to access the patient’s bone density.
We will typically perform CT scans well as a comprehensive overview of your medical history in order to determine this, as the strength of the jaw proves crucial to the success of the implant later on.
However, for those with insufficient bone density, a bone graft will normally correct for this.
If you are missing more than one tooth, or are unhappy with dentures, then there are still implant options available.
At the Gentle Dental, we offer All-On-4 implants; this involves placing four dental implants on the upper or lower jaw.
We then attach prosthetic teeth to this point, allowing multiple teeth to be replaced whilst retaining the benefits of standard implants.
When it comes to the appropriate age for dental implants, there is no upper limit.
There is a lower limit however, as we do not offer implants to those who are jaws have not fully developed.
This usually takes until late teenage years and sometimes is not complete until early adulthood.
As always, every mouth is different, and we will always carry out an X-ray on younger patients to determine the development of their jaw.
In terms of age, the majority of our dental implant candidates tend to be over 65.
According to the Dental Association, roughly half of people over 65 suffer from at least one missing tooth.
This makes dental implants a very popular route for those who are older. Those in their 80s and 90s are no less eligible than someone much younger.
In fact, age is usually not a factor in and of itself.
The main difference between our older and younger patients is actually the cause of tooth loss.
For younger patients, it is more likely to have been from an accident, whereas with older people it is more common to lose a tooth from disease or decay.
Far more important than age is a patient’s medical history and lifestyle habits.
Smoking, for example, can drastically impede the healing process, as does drinking alcohol and the taking of certain medications.
Some conditions, such as cancer, diabetes and gum disease can also have the same effect.
However, it is important not to be discouraged if you fall into one or more of these categories, as none necessarily disqualifies someone from having dental implants.
For more information on whether implants are right for you, click here, or arrange a consultation with us.
Call us on 020 8224 7562.
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