How Do I Know if Dental Implants are Right for Me?

Dental implants have been creating waves in the world of oral health, and for a good reason. They’ve given countless Temecula residents the freedom to laugh and speak without hesitation. Yet, as many dental implant specialists will tell you, it’s not just about choosing a solution — it’s about finding the best one for you. So, let’s take a closer look at some key details before deciding if you’re a good candidate for this surgery.

What are the top reasons you should get dental implants?

There are many reasons why people choose this treatment, from tackling challenges with eating and talking to enhancing one’s oral well-being. Here’s why a chat with your dentist might be a game-changer for you:

• Natural appearance: Unlike other solutions, implants mimic the appearance and functionality of natural teeth. This means they don’t just look real; they feel real, making everyday tasks like eating and speaking seamless.

• An everlasting solution: Dental implants are designed for longevity. With proper care, they can last a lifetime, providing a permanent solution to missing or damaged teeth.

• Bone preservation: Tooth loss often leads to bone loss. Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing its deterioration and maintaining facial structures.

• No need to alter adjacent teeth: Unlike bridges, there’s no need to grind down adjacent healthy teeth to support an implant. They stand alone, preserving the integrity of the surrounding teeth.

Who is most qualified for dental implants?

The wonderful thing about implants is that they’re suitable for a vast majority of the population, but being the ideal candidate does hinge on a few factors. For starters, your jawbone should be dense enough to anchor the implant, but if there’s been bone loss, there’s still hope with procedures like bone grafting. Being in tip-top health is essential, especially free from ailments that can slow bone healing like uncontrolled diabetes. It’s also vital to be diligent about oral hygiene—brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits are key. And if you’re thinking about implants, it’s best if you’re not a smoker, as it can hinder post-op healing and potentially dampen the implant’s success.

When this might not be the right solution?

Despite their revolutionary nature, this procedure might not be the be-all-end-all solution for everyone.

• Young patients: Younger patients, particularly those in their early teens or younger, are still experiencing growth and changes in their jaw. If implants are placed before the jaw has fully matured, they might shift or become misaligned over time. 

• Heavy smokers: Smoking introduces harmful chemicals into the mouth, which can impede the healing process post-implant surgery. The success of dental implants largely hinges on the bone’s ability to fuse to the implant—a process known as osseointegration.

• Uncontrolled chronic conditions: Conditions such as heart disease or diabetes can influence the body’s healing capability. Diabetes, for instance, can reduce blood flow, impairing healing after surgery. Additionally, infections are more likely to occur. 

• Pregnancy: Pregnancy, while a beautiful phase, also means significant hormonal changes and an increased demand on the body’s resources. Dental implant surgery, like any surgical procedure, puts additional stress on the body, which is why it’s often recommended to postpone elective procedures until after childbirth.

• Recent radiation therapy: Patients who’ve had radiation therapy in the head/neck region might need to explore alternatives, since this can decrease bone density and vascularization, making it challenging for implants to securely anchor.

Where in Temecula can I find a reliable dental implant specialist?

Dr. Dmitry Tsvetov of Temecula Center for Wisdom Teeth & Dental Implants is the dental implant specialist you can trust for a natural-looking, and lasting smile. If concerns about implant failures keep you up, or you’re wondering about the right wait time post-extraction, or even weighing your front tooth replacement options, rest easy. Dr. Tsvetov has got your back every step of the way. No matter if you’re a stone’s throw away from the Promenade or a bit further out, our clinic’s doors are always open. Reach out and we’ll set up your visit.