There are plenty of restorative options today for those that are missing teeth. You can get partial or full dentures, you can get bridges or same-day crowns, or you could get dental implants.
In the past, some people weren't good candidates for dental implants. However, implant technology has improved, and many people have good success rates today. It's a good idea to debunk some of those old myths about certain groups that think they cannot qualify for this procedure
Myth: If you smoke, you cannot get dental implants
Many smokers can get dental implants. To increase your success rates, your dentist may recommend a bone graft first. You don't have to give up the habit completely, but you will likely need to abstain from smoking for the first few weeks before and after the procedure. The chemicals in tobacco products constrict vessels, so it makes it harder for your body to heal since blood isn't flowing easily. Although quitting altogether is best, smokers who stop temporarily can have successful procedures!
Myth: If you have diabetes, you cannot get dental implants
Like smoking, diabetes used to be a contraindication. Diabetics tend to have poor circulation and heal slowly, so implants don't always take. However, if you work hard to manage your glucose levels, you could be a good candidate. Diabetic patients are at risk for infections, so your dentist will likely coat your implants with biocompatible materials that will increase healing and osseointegration. Some implants can be coated with bone-stimulating factors and fluoride to strengthen bones during healing.
Myth: If you have poor bone structure, you cannot get dental implants
It is vital to have strong bones or else the implant will fail. If you have weak bones, then you may think you cannot get an implant. However, you may be able to get a successful implant after a bone graft. Bone can be taken from a donor site on your body, from a cadaver, from an animal (usually a cow), or from synthetic sources. You and your dentist can consult to see which type of donor would be best suited to your health needs. For example, if you have osteoporosis, you likely couldn't use bone from your own body since it would have a lower density.
The downside of grafts is that your implant procedure will need to be delayed while the graft heals. Once it's healed, you should have a better chance of having a successful implant surgery.
Contact a dentist today for more information about dental implants and other restorative procedures.
Share31 August 2018
I have always brushed and flossed my teeth daily, but I still had the occasional cavity when I visited the dentist for a check-up. He told me it was normal to have a cavity on occasion and that I shouldn't let it stress me out too much. Well, I am not one to just accept any problem I am having, so I started looking into how to improve my oral hygiene even more. I had always thought mouthwash was just to improve your breath, but I found some that said they helped keep cavities away. I started using one every day before bed. I haven't had a cavity in two years now, and I think the mouth rinse is the reason! I created this blog to remind other people that even if they brush and floss regularly, they can always find ways to take even better care of their teeth.
