When you’re missing a tooth, your entire dental well-being could be affected. Missing teeth often lead to shifting in your bite, increased odds of gum disease, and potential facial sagging. Dental implants in Chester Springs, PA, are among the top recommended treatment options for patients with missing teeth. However, they may not be beneficial to everyone. To successfully get a dental implant, patients need to have a healthy baseline for their oral health, as well as good oral hygiene habits.

Factors for Getting Dental Implants in Chester Springs, PA

When you go to the dentist with a missing tooth, there are a wide range of replacement options available. However, dental implants are generally the most recommended. This is because dental implants mimic the natural root structure of your tooth. This helps you retain bone density in your jaw, often providing a stronger bite and a more complete smile. While dental implants are usually suggested, your dentist may recommend additional treatment if they feel you aren’t a good candidate for implants.

Gum Health

Healthy gums are a crucial factor when considering dental implants. If you suffer from gum disease, you could experience high levels of pain or discomfort both during and after surgery. Gum disease can also cause complications with your implant, potentially causing it to fail or fall out. Patients who have gum disease could still be able to get an implant after successful periodontal therapy and treatment.

Bone Density

Dental implants are surgically placed into your jaw. If you don’t have enough bone density, the implant could come loose or fall out. Bone density loss is common when losing a tooth, especially due to trauma. And the longer you wait to get treatment, the more likely you are to continue losing bone density. However, bone density can be restored through a successful bone grafting treatment. If patients get bone grafting before an implant, they are generally more likely to succeed with implant surgery.

Oral Hygiene Habits

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial no matter what kind of dental treatment you get. But it’s especially true for dental implants. Certain habits, such as smoking or drinking through a straw, can negatively impact the surgical site. Failure to maintain brushing and flossing daily can also cause plaque buildup, which can lead to complications with the implant. Patients who have difficulty keeping up with their oral hygiene may require alternate treatment that’s more low-maintenance.

Other Treatment for Missing Teeth

If you’re missing teeth but can’t get a dental implant, there are still other options available. Dentists can help restore your bite and smile using traditional dental bridges and partial dentures. While dental implants are still the most recommended treatment, bridges and dentures can still help improve your oral health when dental implants aren’t an option.

If you’re missing teeth, the sooner you get treatment, the better. Call Dental Distinction at 610.904.9274 to schedule a consultation and learn more about dental implants.