Losing a tooth can affect everything from your smile’s appearance to your ability to chew comfortably. If you’re exploring options for tooth replacement, you’ve likely heard about the benefits of dental implants. They offer a durable, natural-looking solution that can last a lifetime. But are they the right choice for you? At Dentistry at Bridlewood, we want to help you make an informed decision about your oral health.
Here is a checklist to help you determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants.
Your Dental Implant Candidacy Checklist
Several factors contribute to the long-term success of a dental implant. Consider these points as you think about your treatment options.
You Have Good Overall Oral Health
For an implant to succeed, it needs a healthy environment. This means your gums should be free from periodontal disease. Active gum disease can compromise the implant’s foundation and lead to failure. If you have signs of gum disease, our team can provide treatment to restore your oral health before proceeding with an implant.
You Possess Adequate Jawbone Density
Dental implants are small titanium posts that are surgically placed into your jawbone. They function like an artificial tooth root, and over time, they fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration. This process requires sufficient jawbone volume and density to create a stable anchor. If you have experienced bone loss, a bone graft procedure may be recommended to build up the area before implant placement.
You Are a Non-Smoker or Willing to Quit
Smoking significantly impacts your body’s ability to heal. It restricts blood flow to the gums, which can slow down the healing process after implant surgery and increase the risk of infection. For the best chance of success, we strongly advise patients to quit smoking before and after the procedure.
You Are Committed to an Oral Hygiene Routine
While implants themselves cannot decay, the surrounding gums can still be affected by poor hygiene. Just like natural teeth, implants require regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. A commitment to excellent oral care is essential for maintaining the health of your implant for years to come.
The Dental Implant Process at Dentistry at Bridlewood
The journey to a new smile with dental implants involves several key steps. It begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Stephen H. Dunn or Dr. Guneshi de Mel. We use state-of-the-art imaging to assess your jawbone and plan the precise placement of the implant.
The next step is the surgical placement of the titanium post. After this, a healing period of several months allows the implant to integrate with your bone. Once healing is complete, we attach an abutment, which connects the implant to your custom-made crown. The final step is securing your beautiful, new restoration, which is crafted to match your natural teeth perfectly.
Personalized Care in Ocala
At Dentistry at Bridlewood, Dr. Stephen H. Dunn and Dr. Guneshi de Mel provide personalized care tailored to your unique needs. We understand that every patient’s situation is different. We take the time to listen to your goals and develop a treatment plan that ensures the best possible outcome. Using advanced technology and a compassionate approach, we guide you through every stage of the dental implant process.
If you are missing one or more teeth and believe you might be a candidate for dental implants, we invite you to schedule a consultation at our Ocala, FL office. Let us help you restore your smile and confidence.
Contact Dentistry at Bridlewood – Stephen H Dunn & Associates:
352-873-2000
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
7555 SW Highway 200, Ocala FL
Ocala, Florida
34476