ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS RIGHT FOR YOU?

If you are someone who has lost a tooth, then dental implants may be right for you. The purpose of dental implants is to replace a lost tooth, regardless of how it was lost. Those who have implants put in place will find it to be an optimal solution compared to removable dentures, which are much more inconvenient and troublesome.  

What to Know Before Getting Implants

Most people are able to have dental implants put in place, but there are a select few of individuals who may want to review their candidacy if they suffer from certain health conditions.

For example, if you are a smoker, you’ll need to either stop smoking or talk to your dentist about your smoking before you have dental implants put in place. The main concern for smokers is that infection can develop because the gums are not as healthy as normal gums.

Other common health conditions that can affect your ability to get dental implants are cancer and diabetes. Like smokers, those with cancer and diabetes see an increased risk of gum disease, which means that the dental implants may not be able to withstand being secured to the gums and underlying bone.

How to Get Dental Implants

You can get dental implants by speaking to your dentist or periodontist. After a consultation, your dental professional will advise you about your candidacy, the length of time of the procedure, and how long it will take to heal and use the implant without discomfort. In most cases, individuals require only one surgery to put the implant in place. However, there are some circumstances where a dentist may require more time.

The Difference between Implants and Real Teeth

One of the main advantages of dental implants is that they are nearly identical to real teeth in appearance and in form. Those who have dental implants are usually unable to tell the difference between the implants and their own teeth. Furthermore, maintenance of the dental implants is quite simple. All you need to do is to brush and floss regularly and to also visit your dentist a few times a year to ensure that everything is in good shape.

Maintaining Dental Implants

It is also important to keep in mind that dental implants are more durable than natural teeth, which means that they can withstand the constant abrasion that occurs when you chew. However, despite the strength of dental implants, it is still important to always check-in with your dentist to ensure that everything is going well.

If you need a dentist in Centreville VA, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. O’Donnell to schedule an appointment!