When your dentist assesses your mouth, they may recommend that you receive dental implants. Here are a few factors that they consider to determine if you are a good candidate for implants:

You Have One or More Missing Teeth

A dental implant-based restoration offers the most natural-looking option for the replacement of lost teeth. The implant, which is embedded in the bone of the jaw, replaces the roots of the missing tooth to anchor the new replacement tooth in place. Additionally, the implant is fitted with an abutment that connects it to a dental crown or other devices that replace the natural crowns of lost teeth.

Dental implants also make great options for tooth replacement because of their longevity. A dental implant, if cared for properly, is unlikely to require replacement. Even if the crown covering the implant becomes damaged, the implant may remain intact. Thus, only the crown would need to be replaced in most cases.

Your Dentures Slip Regularly

As a denture slips from its proper position, it can cause discomfort. Additionally, the movement of the device can make it more difficult for you to chew your food or speak correctly.

Your dentist may suggest dental implants to help hold the denture securely in position. To stabilize the denture, the dentist may strategically place several dental implants along the ridge of the gums. The implants include connectors that attach the implants to a mechanism on the underside of the denture. Once the denture is attached to the dental implants, it is anchored in place.

Your Jawbone Is Starting to Shrink

Once you lose a tooth, the jawbone where the tooth resided no longer receives the stimulation needed to remain thick and healthy. As a result, the bone tissue begins to deteriorate. As time progresses, the atrophy of the bone may worsen.

Your dentist knows that implants can provide the stimulation needed to encourage the production of new bone cells. Thus, if your jawbone appears to be shrinking, the dentist may suggest dental implants before the condition becomes severe enough to require a bone graft.

You Have Too Little Tooth Material for the Placement of a Crown

In some cases, a tooth can become so decayed that only a small amount of tooth material remains. If the amount of remaining material is too little to support the placement of a dental crown, the dentist may suggest a dental implant. After the implant has been placed and has integrated with the bone of the jaw, it can be covered by a connector and an implant crown.

To find out if you are a good candidate for an implant, schedule a consultation with a local dentist.