Are you interested in getting dental implants in Irving to replace your missing teeth? You aren’t the only one! Over 5 million dental implants are placed every year, with that number steadily rising. That’s because more people are discovering the countless benefits that this cutting-edge treatment offers, ranging from a smile that looks and feels 100 percent lifelike to the ability to prevent jawbone deterioration. Take the first step today by scheduling a consultation with your local implant dentist, but first, review a few key qualifications that would make you a good candidate for the procedure below.
A Clean Bill of Health
It’s important to contextualize this section by saying that you can still get dental implants if you’ve had medical issues in the past or even currently. The key is to make sure that any chronic concerns are either actively being addressed or have been addressed before you can undergo dental implant surgery, like diabetes. It’s likely that your implant dentist will collaborate on your care with your primary care physician or specialist to make sure that you’re a good candidate for the procedure and will be able to successfully restore your smile with dental implants.
Realistic Expectations of the Process
The dental implant process is much more involved than say, traditional dentures. There are four main steps that you’ll undergo, and one additional step that may be deemed necessary depending on your situation: consultation, preliminary treatments, implant surgery, healing, and the attachment of your abutments and restoration. For some, the process can be completed in as little as six months, but in other cases, it can extend past a year. While the results are well worth the extra time, it’s a good idea to make sure your expectations are realistic.
Good Oral Health
Similar to having a clean bill of health, it’s also important that any lingering oral health problems you may have, like gum disease or existing cavities, are treated before you undergo dental implant surgery. Without a healthy foundation for your dental implants to be anchored to, they will be at a higher risk of failing.
A Commitment to Practicing Good Oral Hygiene
Although your implant retained prosthetics are made from materials that can’t decay or corrode, like titanium and ceramic, it’s still critical for you to maintain good dental hygiene to prevent them from failing. Make sure to brush and floss your teeth every day like you normally would and visit your dentist every six months for professional cleanings and checkups. That way, if any issues do arise, they can take care of them before they compromise the integrity of your new, hard-earned smile.
About the Author
Dr. Rafiq Hirji has been practicing dentistry for well over a decade. He has completed additional specialized training in the placement and restoration of dental implants, allowing him to complete the entire process under one roof for his patients’ convenience. For questions or to schedule a consultation and learn whether you’re a good candidate for this procedure, visit Daily Smiles MacArthur Dental & Orthodontics’ website or call 972-546-4114.