If you’re missing one or more of your natural teeth, you may be looking into restoration dentistry options that help you smile with confidence again. Well, you’re in luck – dental implants are one of the most effective, long-lasting, and natural-looking solutions out there! But not everyone is an ideal candidate.
Don’t worry – verifying your candidacy is as simple as scheduling a consultation at Lakewood Dental Group in Dallas, TX. Dr. Shaun Sigurdson and Dr. Mihir Patel can assess your smile and determine if this procedure is right for you. So, what are you waiting for? Call our team at (214) 827-1885 to start repairing your smile with dental implants today!
Now, let’s break down the top seven factors that make someone a good match for dental implants.
1. You Have One or More Missing Teeth
Dental implants are great for most people, especially if they are missing at least one tooth. Whether you lost a tooth or several teeth due to injury, decay, or gum disease, implants can help restore your smile.
An implant replaces the root of your missing tooth and supports a restoration that looks and feels like the real deal. Unlike dentures, which can slip or feel bulky, implants stay firmly in place.
They also help keep your bite balanced and your jawbone healthy. So, if you’ve been hiding your smile or avoiding your favorite foods, implants may be just what you need to regain your confidence.
2. You Have Healthy Gums
Healthy gum tissue is the key to successful dental implants. Gum tissue helps support the implant and keeps it in place. Here’s what this means for you:
If you have gum disease, it must be addressed ahead of implant surgery. That’s because inflamed or infected gums can weaken the bone around your teeth, making it harder for the implant to hold firm.
The good news? With proper care and treatment, many patients can improve their gum health and still become strong candidates. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings go a long way toward keeping your gums in top shape.
3. You Have Enough Jawbone
One of the coolest things about dental implants is that they bond with your jawbone. That’s how they stay so strong and stable. But to do that, your jawbone needs to be thick and healthy.
If you’ve been missing teeth for a long time, your bone might have started to shrink. This is common, but it can make placing an implant harder.
Luckily, our Dallas implant dentists can recommend a bone graft to build up the area. Once the bone heals, you’ll be ready for your implant. So, don’t count yourself out if your jawbone isn’t perfect just yet!
4. You Don’t Smoke (or You’re Willing to Quit)
Smoking and dental implants don’t mix well. Smoking compromises blood flow to your mouth, which can slow healing and increase the risk of implant failure.
So, if you’re a smoker, our team will ask you to quit before and after your implant surgery. That gives your mouth the best chance to heal.
Quitting isn’t easy, but many patients find the motivation when they realize how much it can improve their smile and overall health. If you’re ready to ditch the cigarettes, Dr. Sigurdson and Dr. Patel can help guide you with resources and support.
5. You’re in Good Overall Health
Being healthy helps your mouth heal properly after getting dental implants. Conditions like diabetes, autoimmune diseases, or heart problems can affect healing time and increase the risk of complications.
However, that doesn’t mean you can’t get implants. It just means our implant dentists in Dallas, TX, will need to work closely with your primary care team to strategize your treatment. With proper planning and care, many people with medical conditions still succeed with implants.
Dr. Patel and Dr. Sigurdson may ask about your medical history, medications, and lifestyle habits to make sure dental implants are safe and effective for you.
6. You’re Committed to Good Oral Hygiene
Dental implants require the same care as biological teeth. This means:
- Brushing once in the morning with fluoride toothpaste
- Brushing once again at night
- Flossing every day
- Visiting Lakewood Dental Group regularly for exams and cleanings
Implants don’t get cavities, but the gums around them can still get infected if you don’t keep things clean. If you’re already brushing and flossing daily, that’s a great sign! Our team may also recommend a special toothbrush or rinse to keep your implant extra clean. If you’re ready to commit to healthy habits, your implants can last a lifetime.
7. You Have Realistic Expectations
Let’s be honest – dental implants are amazing, but they’re not a magic fix overnight. The process takes time, often several months from start to finish.
It involves surgery, healing, and follow-up visits. But the results? A beautiful, natural-looking smile that functions, feels, and looks like a dream.
So, if you’re willing to be patient and follow your dentist’s instructions, implants can be life-changing. Knowing what to expect ahead of time helps you stay relaxed and excited throughout your journey.
Age Isn’t Always a Dealbreaker
Many people think you have to be young to get dental implants, but that’s not true! Age alone doesn’t necessarily disqualify you.
In fact, implants are a great option for older adults who want a permanent solution instead of dentures. As long as your gums and bones are healthy, and you’re in good general health, implants may still work for you.
However, dental implants may not be ideal for teens or young adults, as their jawbones may not be fully developed. Once jaw development stabilizes, then dental implants become a better solution for younger smiles.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
So, why are dental implants such a big deal in restoration dentistry? Here’s what our implant dentists in Dallas say:
- They look and feel like real teeth and help preserve your jawbone.
- They don’t slip or move like dentures.
- With proper care, they can last your entire life.
That’s why more and more people are choosing implants to restore their smiles. They’re an investment in your confidence, your health, and your quality of life.
Ready to Smile Again? Discuss Dental Implants with Dentists in Dallas, TX
Dental implants could be the solution you’ve been searching for. With the right care and guidance, they can change your life for the better.
So, if you’re ready to take the next step toward a healthier, more confident smile, click here to schedule a consultation at Lakewood Dental Group or call (214) 827-1885 for an appointment today!
