Dental implants may be the right solution for patients with a missing tooth or several missing teeth and are small posts that substitute for the root of your tooth and connect to new replacement teeth. 

Whether loose or missing teeth result from tooth decay, root fractures, gum disease or a facial injury, dental implants can be a good option and can serve as an alternative if you don’t want dentures. This solution can help improve your speech and appearance, and you will also be more comfortable. 

If you’re wondering whether or not dental implants are right for you, you must meet certain criteria. To be a suitable candidate, you must be an adult, your gum tissues must be healthy, you must be in good overall health, and your jawbone must have enough bone to secure implants. Your dentist in Tavistock will help you make informed decisions and complete a full evaluation, including a comprehensive exam, dental x-rays and 3D images, and models of your teeth and jaw. 

There are several things your dentist will look for, including:

1. Bone density. Your jawbone must be strong enough to hold and bind with the base of a dental implant. If enough bone density is not present, you will need a procedure to restore it. 

2. Healthy gums. Your gums must be in good shape to support surgery, and patients with gum disease will be at risk of infection, making it more likely for your implant to fail. Your dentist will ensure you do not have gum disease; if you do, you will have to wait until it goes away before getting implants.

3. Good overall health. Anesthesia may be required for dental implant surgery, and you must be in good general health to receive anesthesia. Your dentist will review your medical history, and they will need to know about any medical conditions you have, along with any medications you take.

Certain health conditions may prevent you from getting dental implants. This solution may not be a good option if you have diabetes, unhealthy gums, cardiac problems, significant bone loss or previous radiation therapy for your head or neck. These conditions can lower your chances of a successful implant and may not be good for your health. Health conditions like heart issues or orthopedic implants will make infection more likely. 

Getting dental implants will take time, and the process is a commitment. Some implants will require more than one surgical procedure, and the entire process can take several months to over a year. After your surgery, your dentist will schedule follow-up visits to ensure your implants, teeth, and gums are healthy. It can take several months to heal before you get your new replacement teeth, and depending on the situation, you may be able to get temporary teeth to wear while you wait. 

If you are looking for a dentist near me in Tavistock, search no further and contact Tavistock Family Dentistry. Whether you need an emergency dentist or a routine checkup, we are always ready to help, and you can contact our office at any time to schedule an appointment.