Who is suitable for dental implants?

If you have good general health then dental implants will almost certainly work for you. They can only be used once the jawbone has stopped growing so generally are not used in young patients. However, habits such as heavy drinking or smoking can increase the number of problems associated with initial healing and thereafter may negatively influence the long-term health of gum and bone surrounding each implant. Remaining teeth might also be compromised making treatment planning less certain.

Some dentists will decline to place implants if smoking cannot be reduced or given up altogether.

If you have any other complicated medical problems then speak to your dentist prior to starting treatment - it is rare to have health problems that prevent the use of dental implants.

 

 

Do you need to have a healthy mouth?

When you first enquire about dental implants it is often in response to an awareness of on-going dental problems or the recent loss of teeth. Each of these problems will need to be diagnosed and treated in a logical manner, before placing implants ,in order to establish healthier conditions. 

 

Although it is tempting to focus on the more glamorous aspects of teeth supported by implants, basic dental health, which includes the treatment of gum disease, repair of decay and the elimination of abscesses will be just as important for the long-term success of your treatment.

 

If you are aware of bad breath, loose teeth, or have noticed excessive bleeding, particularly when your teeth are cleaned professionally, you may have gum problems. Periodontal (gum) disease is a major cause of bone loss and with reduced bone, dental implant treatment can be more complicated.

How long will the implants last?

Once the implants and surrounding soft tissues are seen to be healthy and the new teeth comfortable and correctly adjusted, it is the quality of your home care and willingness to present for regular maintenance reviews that will have most influence on how long they will last.

When poorly cared for, implants will develop a covering of hard and soft deposits (calculus and plaque) which is very similar to that found on neglected natural teeth. Untreated, these deposits can lead to gum infection, bleeding, soreness and general discomfort, just as can occur around natural teeth. It could probably be said that implants much like teeth will last for as long as you can keep them clean.

Well maintained implants placed into adequate bone can be expected to last for many years and probably for your lifetime. However, just as you would expect conventional crowns, bridges and fillings to need occasional repairs or replacements during their lifetime, your implant-supported teeth may also have similar maintenance requirements over theirs.

 

Rhod - Clinical Director, Absolute Dental