It’s Been a While Since I Lost My Teeth; Can I Qualify for Dental Implants?

Tooth loss is a serious oral health problem that can lead to a host of undesirable consequences like gum injuries, uneven enamel wear, dental misalignments, jawbone erosion, trouble eating, difficulty speaking, TMJ issues, and further tooth loss. Thankfully, dental implants can replace lost teeth with lifelike and functional restorations that look, feel, and work exactly like the real thing. Here’s a quick look at how dental implants work as well as how you may be able to qualify if it has been a long time since you lost teeth.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are remarkable prosthetic devices designed to replace lost teeth. They include three principal parts, those being:

• The titanium piece: The foundation of a dental implant is a small titanium rod surgically placed in the jawbone. Titanium is a strong and lightweight metal that has the incredible ability to fuse with living bone tissue through the process of osseointegration, which sets the implant up for maximum lifespan and chewing power.
• The abutment: This device will be anchored to your implant after it has fused with your jaw, and it will be used to secure your restoration in place.
• The restoration: Dental implants can support lifelike crowns, bridges, and dentures depending on how many teeth are missing and where they were located.

Can I Receive Dental Implants?

Dental implants can be an excellent way for virtually anyone to replace their lost teeth as long as they are free from oral infections and have sturdy jawbones. If you have infections like cavities and gum disease, your dentist will have to clear them up so you can receive implants safely.

Tooth loss deprives the jawbone of the exercise it needs to stay strong and healthy, so the section of bone that supported a missing tooth will gradually atrophy and recede after it is lost. If this process goes on for too long, it may be difficult for the titanium part of a dental implant to bond with the patient’s jaw. Fortunately, this issue can often be addressed with procedures like sinus lifts or bone grafts so a patient can receive dental implants later.

Don’t let long-term tooth loss discourage you from exploring your options for restoring your smile. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand how to achieve the grin of your dreams.

About the Author

Dr. Joe Kern earned his dental degree at Ohio State University and takes great pride in helping his patients achieve healthier and prettier smiles. His office in Grafton offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as implant services. If you’d like to learn about the best way to replace your lost teeth, contact his office online or dial (701) 352-2013.