Dental implants are prosthetic devices that serve as artificial tooth roots. The implants are surgically placed into the bone of the jaw to help replace missing teeth.

Dental implant-based restorations can restore the function and appearance of your smile, as well as prevent bone loss and other oral health problems. But are dental implants right for you?

Here are some factors to consider before deciding to get dental implants.

The Condition of Your Jawbone

Dental implants require sufficient bone density and quality to support them. If you have lost bone mass due to tooth loss, gum disease, or other factors, you may need a bone graft before getting dental implants.

A bone graft is a procedure that involves the addition of synthetic or natural bone material to your jawbone to make it stronger and thicker. Your dentist can evaluate your jawbone and determine if you need a bone graft or not.

The Health of Your Gums

Healthy gums are essential for dental implant success. Gum disease can cause inflammation, infection, and damage to the tissues that surround the implant. If you have gum disease, you will need to treat it before getting dental implants. Your dentist can recommend the best treatment options for your gum condition, such as scaling and root planing, antibiotics, or surgery.

The Number and Location of Your Missing Teeth

Dental implants can replace one, several, or all of your teeth. Depending on how many teeth you need to replace, you may need different types of dental implant-based treatments.

For example, if you are missing one tooth, you may need a single implant with a crown attached to it. If you are missing several teeth in a row, you may need an implant-supported bridge, which consists of two or more implants that support a row of artificial teeth. If you are missing all of your teeth, you may need an implant-supported denture, which is a removable or fixed prosthesis that attaches to four or more implants.

The Cost and Maintenance of Dental Implants

Dental implants are generally more expensive than other tooth replacement options, such as bridges or dentures. However, they also offer more benefits in terms of durability, comfort, and aesthetics.

Dental implants can last for decades with proper care and maintenance. You will need to brush and floss your implant-supported teeth daily, as well as visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. You may also need to avoid certain habits that can harm your implants, such as chewing overly hard foods, using tobacco products, or grinding your teeth.

Contact your dentist to learn more about dental implant services.