Want to feel confident in your own smile?

According to a report on U.S Markets for Dental Implants and Final Abutments 2009, there were about 60 million dental prosthetic devices sold last year. We can attribute this rise in dental implants, which are artificial roots that periodontists place into your jaw as a foundation for a replacement tooth, to several reasons. Dental implant surgeries are easy to endure and operations now have a success ratio of about 95%. Unlike  conventional dentures and bridges which can be irritating or break easily, dental implants are are fairly comfortable, with little to no notice of their existence, and they can last a lifetime provided an experienced periodontist conducts the operation.

But are dental implants are for you? What considerations should you keep in mind before going for a dental implant procedure?

The best candidate for a dental implant procedure usually has adequate oral and dental hygiene. Your dentist and periodontist should consult with each other before approving a dental implant operation (sometimes your dentist and periodontist will be the same person, as in our case!) The two main areas you should evaluate when considering dental implants are the following:

• Medical Condition: Chances are that you can have your dental implants operation if you can have a normal dental corrective procedure done. However, check with your dentist and show him your medical records to catch any signs of conditions that could complicate a dental implant procedure like high-blood pressure, diabetes,gum diseases, etc. Some people might have a natural bone loss condition usually after a periodontal disease or other dental conditions which could make a dental implant procedure complicated.
• Personal habits: If you have habits such as smoking, your chances of having a successful dental implant done is slightly lowered. If you are a chain smoker or if you have smoked for a long time, it is best to consult your dentist before going in for a dental implant.

Still not sure if dental implants are right for you? Check out our earlier post titled Dental Implants NYC: Would You Like Pearly White Teeth God Didn’t Make?” for more information on what exactly your dental implant procedure involves or call our offices.