Implant dentistry has wonderful restorative benefits that often make it the treatment of choice for patients with tooth loss. However, not every patient can benefit from dental implants in Lyndhurst, NJ, right away. Patients need a strong jaw to help ensure that the implant integrates properly.
They also need to have good oral health and a strong hygiene routine to ensure success. Before starting treatment, your dentist will examine your mouth to determine if implants are right for your smile.
Who Can’t Get Dental Implants in Lyndhurst, NJ
When it comes to tooth loss, there are plenty of restoration options available. Some patients can benefit more from one treatment over another. While dental implants do tend to offer the most benefits, they could be harmful to some patients instead. There are three main reasons that a dental implant could fail.
Bone Density Loss
When you lose a tooth, you often lose a small portion of your jawbone. Without the root structure connecting to it, it’s possible for your jaw bone to lose density. When this happens, you’re more likely to experience teeth shifting and facial sagging. Because dental implants are surgically placed into your jawbone, it’s crucial that you have enough bone density to support the implant. If you don’t, your implant could come loose or even fall out.
If, after taking an X-ray, your dentist determines that you have bone density loss, they may recommend bone grafting treatment before getting an implant.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is another leading cause of implant failure. Implants require a strong gumline to support them during the integration process. If you have weakened gums, it’s possible to experience pain and discomfort during treatment. Patients with gum disease may also lose their implants altogether. However, if you do have gum disease, you may still be able to get an implant. After a successful periodontal therapy treatment, many patients are eligible for implant dentistry.
Smoking
If you smoke during treatment for an implant, you greatly increase the risk of suffering complications. The sucking motion of smoking can often cause your implant to come loose. And the harmful chemicals in a cigar or cigarette can sometimes affect the titanium post of your implant. For many patients, the implant process can take a few months to complete. Therefore, it’s often recommended that patients quit smoking as soon as possible prior to starting treatment.
Alternate Treatment
If you aren’t eligible for dental implants, that doesn’t mean you can’t get restorative treatment. Many patients can also benefit from dental bridges or dentures to restore their bites and improve their smiles. Your dentist can help you create a treatment plan designed for your unique case.
If you’re missing teeth, you could face worsening dental conditions. At Ridge Family Dental, we offer a wide range of restorative treatment options, such as dental implants, to help treat tooth loss. Call us today at 551-272-7026 to schedule a consultation and see if you’re eligible for implant dentistry.