Dental implants have revolutionized the way we approach tooth replacement. They are widely considered the gold standard in restorative dentistry, offering a solution that looks, feels, and functions just like natural teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants replace the entire tooth structure—root and all—providing unmatched stability and longevity.
At The Yuma Dentist, serving both Yuma and the Fortuna Foothills, AZ, Dr. Roopinder Mann and our team are dedicated to helping you restore your smile with this advanced technology. But a common question we hear is: “Am I actually a good candidate?”
While most adults can successfully receive implants, certain factors increase the likelihood of success. Here is a checklist to help you understand what makes an ideal candidate for dental implants.
1. Sufficient Jawbone Density
This is the most critical factor. Because a dental implant is a titanium post inserted directly into your jawbone, there must be enough bone to support it securely. The implant fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration. If the bone is too thin or soft, the implant may fail to anchor properly.
2. Healthy Gums
Your gums play a vital role in supporting the implant. Patients with active periodontal (gum) disease are at a higher risk for infection around the implant, which can lead to failure. Before we can proceed with implant surgery, any existing gum disease must be treated and managed effectively.
3. Good General Health
Since placing an implant is a surgical procedure, your overall health matters. Conditions that affect healing, such as uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders, can impact the success rate. You don’t need to be an Olympic athlete, but your body needs to be able to heal properly after the surgery.
4. Commitment to Oral Hygiene
Dental implants are not a “set it and forget it” solution. While they cannot get cavities, the gum tissue around them can still become infected. A great candidate is someone committed to brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting The Yuma Dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
5. Non-Smoker or Willing to Quit
Smoking significantly slows down healing and restricts blood flow to the gums, increasing the risk of implant failure. While smokers can still get implants, the success rate is higher for non-smokers. If you do smoke, being willing to pause before and after the procedure is a huge plus.
Preparing for Your Perfect Smile
If you read through that checklist and worried you might not qualify, don’t lose hope. Not being a candidate today doesn’t mean you can never get implants.
At The Yuma Dentist, Dr. Roopinder Mann specializes in turning “no” into “not yet.” If you have experienced bone loss due to missing teeth or wearing dentures for years, our team offers preparatory procedures to build a strong foundation for your future smile.
- Bone Grafts: We can augment your existing jawbone with grafting material to create a solid base for the implant.
- Sinus Lifts: For upper teeth, if the sinus cavity is too close to the jawbone, a sinus lift adds bone to ensure there is enough depth for the implant.
These procedures help prepare your jawbone for successful implant placement in the future, ensuring that more patients in Yuma and the Fortuna Foothills can enjoy the benefits of a complete, confident smile.
Ready to find out if dental implants are right for you? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Mann today to discuss your checklist for success.
CONTACT THE YUMA DENTIST (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):
THE YUMA DENTIST – PACIFIC AVENUE
1630 S PACIFIC AVE STE 104
YUMA, AZ 85365
928-783-0804THE YUMA DENTIST – FORTUNA FOOTHILLS
11231 E COMMERCIAL CENTER LOOP STE 105
YUMA, AZ 85367
928-783-8300
