Dental implants can be a great solution for anyone who has issues with missing teeth. Implants can also be used to provide an anchor for dentures. And while they can be wonderful indeed, there are some things you need to know about them before you go for the procedure. You first have to know if you’re an eligible candidate. You also need to know what the procedure is like and what it entails or you may end up with unpleasant surprises. Let’s take a look at a few things you should know before getting dental implants.
Bone Density is Very Important
To understand why bone density is so important when it comes to dental implants, you have to know how they work. The part that will support the implant will be screwed into your jaw. Just like you would with any renovation projects, there needs to be a certain level of structural integrity for the screw to stay in place.
This means that if your jawbone is too brittle, fragile, or small, then you might not be able to get a dental implant. Also, your jawbone will start to shrink once you lose a tooth, and the longer you were living without one, the more the jaw will shrink. Only through an x-ray will the dentist be able to tell if you have enough bone there for an implant, so don’t make assumptions.
Go with the Right Dentist
It’s also very important that you go with the right professional. It’s always better to go for someone close to you, but you can extend your search as well. If you’re looking for dental implants in the Gold Coast, make sure that you check what other people have had to say about them, and see if they’re in good standing with the DBA.
You next need to sit down with them and ask them the right questions. You need to know how many implant procedures they’ve performed. Ask to see examples of their work and speak with people they’ve treated if you can. Also, check how they answer the questions. Someone who takes the time to listen to your concerns and give you clear answers should be prioritised.
You Might Have to Quit Smoking
You should already know by now that smoking can be disastrous for your gums, but it’s even worse in the first stages after an implant. Smoking, especially heavy smoking, could lead to implant failure and is one of the most common causes of it. This is because smoking slows down the healing process, which is very important in this process. There’s also a high risk of infection. This is why most professionals will ask that patients stop smoking before the procedure and during the healing period to make sure that there aren’t any complications.
These are all important things you’ll need to be aware of before you book an appointment. Most importantly, make sure that you work with someone who cares and will guide you through the whole process.