Dental implants have become a popular option for people seeking to replace missing teeth. They are a long-term, natural-looking solution that can restore the look, feel and function of a patient’s teeth. If you’re thinking about getting dental implants, there are a few factors to consider when deciding if it is the right treatment option for you.
During a consultation at FY Smile, one of our experienced and friendly team members can discuss your treatment goals with you, as well as assess your smile and your health to determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants.
Table of Contents
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are essentially artificial tooth roots that provide a base for replacement teeth. They are fitted into the jawbone or onto the jaw, depending on the type of implant, to support a crown and mimic the look and function of natural teeth.
Implants can be used to replace one or multiple missing teeth, providing a strong and stable solution. The success rate of dental implants is high and they are considered a long-lasting solution for missing teeth, compared to other options such as dentures or bridges.
Suitable candidates for dental implants
Ultimately, your suitability for dental implants will be determined during your consultation, after a thorough oral examination. However, before your consultation, you may like to get a general idea of what typically makes an ideal candidate.
Generally, suitable candidates for dental implants should:
- Have good oral and overall health: Dental implants require healthy gums to support the implant and ensure that the replacement tooth will last for the longest duration of time possible. Individuals with gum disease or a history of bone loss may need to undergo additional treatments before receiving implants. Additionally, If you have a chronic medical condition such as diabetes, heart disease, or immunodeficiency, your ability to heal from the procedure may be affected, possibly making dental implants a less suitable option.
- Have adequate jawbone density: Implants rely on the jawbone to provide stability and support. Individuals with low jawbone density may not be suitable for endosteal dental implants, but may benefit from subperiosteal dental implants. Alternatively, those without sufficient jaw bone height may need bone augmentation or grafting.
- Be non-smokers: Smoking can affect the healing process after a procedure with dental implants and increase the risk of implant failure. Individuals who smoke will likely be encouraged to quit before dental implant surgery to be a suitable candidate.
- Practice good oral hygiene: Good oral hygiene is important for the success and longevity of dental implants. Candidates should maintain a strict oral hygiene regimen and regularly visit the dentist for checkups and cleans.
- Hold realistic expectations: Candidates should have realistic expectations about the results of the procedure and be aware of any potential risks and complications. Potential complications can be discussed during your consultation, as well as how to minimise the chance of them occurring.
- Be ready for the full procedure time: A procedure with dental implants can take about three to nine months to fully complete, including about three to six months to allow the implant to integrate into your jawbone before an implant post and a crown is fitted.
- Be prepared for the recovery process: Procedures with dental implants will require a recovery period, during which patients will need to eat soft food and take care of their general health by staying hydrated. Candidates should be willing to follow any important instructions to support sufficient healing after the procedure.
Regardless of whether or not you fit the above criteria, we recommend booking a consultation at our Double Bay clinic, so that one of our team members can conduct an oral examination and recommend the right treatment for you.
FY Smile: Dental treatments designed around quality, innovation and performance
At FY Smile, we’re committed to making your dental treatment a positive and comfortable experience.
We’re currently the one and only slow dentist clinic in Australia, meaning that we take a patient-centred approach to each of our treatments, taking our time to understand your needs. We care about your comfort and wellbeing when you visit our especially designed, calming and cosy clinic in Double Bay.
As an accredited QIP (Quality, Innovation and Performance) standard practice, FY Smile upholds the standards of the National Safety and Quality Health Service. We follow strict protocols to ensure a clean, sterile environment, as well as do our absolute best to provide treatments of the highest quality possible.
To learn more about dental implants and what the procedure involves, head to our dental implants page here. If you would like to book a consultation, either in-person or virtually, you are welcome to fill out our online contact form today!
