Am I A Candidate for Dental Implants?

Maybe you have been missing a tooth for quite some time. Or perhaps you recently had teeth knocked out in an accident. Whatever your reasons for wanting dental implants, we can help. The first step in getting dental implants is determining if you are a good candidate to receive implants.

What Makes a Good Dental Implant Candidate?

Non-Smokers

If you smoke or otherwise use tobacco products, unfortunately, you're not the best candidate for the dental implant procedure. Smoking increases the risk of the tooth implant not fusing properly to the jawbone. Individuals who smoke typically also heal more slowly after the dental implant procedure.

Healthy Gums

The condition of both your teeth and gums affects your oral health. As such, if you have receding gums from advanced periodontal disease, you won't likely be an ideal candidate for dental implants. This is because teeth are more likely to fall out when they aren't supported by healthy gums. Ideal candidates for dental implants have healthy gums.

Sufficient Bone Density in the Jaw

Sufficient bone density in your jaw is also necessary to receive dental implants. However, even if you don't have as much jawbone density as required, mini dental implants may be an option for you. Full-sized implants are between 3.4 and 5.8 mm wide, while mini implants are only 1.8 to 3.0 mm in diameter.

Excellent Oral Hygiene

To be an ideal candidate for dental implants, you need to be willing to take excellent care of your new smile. This will make your implants last longer. You will need to brush your teeth twice daily and floss once daily. You must see your dental implant dentist at least once every six months for a dental cleaning exam. Your dental provider will carefully monitor dental implants, so they last for many years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

Does Insurance cover Dental Implants?

Unfortunately, most dental and medical insurance companies don't provide dental implant coverage, since dental implants are still considered to be a cosmetic procedure. However, some of the implant-related procedures, such as bone grafting and tissue regeneration, might be covered by some dental insurance plans. 

The good news is that our insurance specialists are happy to file a dental implant pre-treatment plan to your insurance company whenever necessary to determine what your coverage might be.

Do Dental Implants Require Special Care?

Once your dental implants will serve you well for many years if you take care of them and practice excellent oral hygiene. This means taking the time for brushing and flossing and going to routine appointments with your dental specialists. Implants that are properly cared for and maintained will last indefinitely.

Need More Information about Dental Implants in Zachary, LA?

At Fallin Family Dentistry, we are here to answer your dental implant questions. We can help you decide if you are a good candidate for implants and, if so, get you started on a treatment plan. Even if you aren't a good candidate for dental implants, we have several other treatment options available to give you the healthy, bright smile you deserve.Contact us at 225-654-2212 to schedule a consultation today.