What Factors Are Taken into Consideration before Placing a Dental Implant?
Nov. 15 2019
A desirable solution to missing teeth is that of dental implants. Patients in the Melville, NY area who are interested in obtaining dental implants will want to work with a dentist who can evaluate them for candidacy. There are several factors that Dr. Dean Glasser of Implant and General Dentistry of Long Island needs to consider before determining if a patient can benefit from this particular restoration.
What are dental implants?
A dental implant is a dental restoration that is made of titanium and looks like a small post or screw. A dentist will insert this implant into the space where a tooth is missing. The bone around the implant grows through a process called osseointegration. This process ensures the implant can stay firmly in place. The implant acts as a natural tooth root. The dentist then restores the top of the implant with a crown, bridge, or denture based on the patient’s unique situation and specific needs.
What factors are considered when determining candidacy for dental implants?
While dental implants are popular, not everyone is considered a viable candidate for them. Dental implants require patients to:
- Have sufficient bone structure. The jaw bone that holds teeth in place must be strong, healthy, and sufficient to support the dental implant. While bone growth occurs after placement, there needs to be enough bone for the process to start. Some patients consider bone grafting to build up the jaw bone and prepare for the placement of a dental implant.
- Have a healthy smile. Conditions such as periodontal disease can cause the bone of the jaw to shrink, which puts dental implants at risk of being unsuccessful in the long-term. Patients considering dental implants need to be serious about their oral health and have a smile free from decay and disease.
- Take care of the smile afterwards. Once dental implants are in place, they can still be lost if patients do not care for their smile as they should. Patients should book routine visits with their dentist to monitor their dental implants and overall health, and should brush and floss as directed to keep teeth and gums clean.
Considering dental implants?
Speak to Dr. Dean Glasser of Implant and General Dentistry of Long Island today to learn more about these preferred restorations for patients who have lost one or more teeth within the smile. Our team is here to assist those in and around the community of Melville, NY with their general, cosmetic, and restorative dental needs. Call (631) 423-6767 to schedule your visit.
Dr. Dean Glasser is a respected Cosmetic and General Dentist, serving Melville, NY and the greater Long Island area. A Professor at Columbia University Dental School, Dr. Glasser is recognized as a Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and as a Fellow of the following organizations: the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Association of Hospital Dentistry and the Misch Implant Institute.
