Losing a tooth can affect more than just your smile; it can impact your confidence, your ability to chew, and even the health of your jaw. If you’re looking for a permanent, natural-feeling solution, dental implants are the gold standard for tooth replacement. At Jefferson City Dental Care, we’ve helped countless patients restore their smiles and improve their quality of life. But how do you know if this advanced treatment is right for you?
Led by one of the area’s premier dentists, Dr. Justin Johnson, DDS, our team is committed to providing exceptional care to our community in Jefferson City and surrounding areas like Ashland, Columbia, and Fulton. This checklist will help you understand the key factors that contribute to a successful dental implant procedure.
The Ideal Candidate Checklist
A good dental implant candidate typically has healthy gums, sufficient jawbone density, excellent oral hygiene, no chronic illnesses, and a commitment to follow post-surgery care instructions
Dental implants have a very high success rate, and certain factors can ensure you get the best possible outcome. Review this checklist to see if you are a good fit.
- You Have Good Overall Oral Health: Your journey to a new implant starts with a healthy foundation. Gums free from periodontal disease and healthy adjacent teeth are crucial. If you have existing gum issues, we will address those first to create a stable environment for the implant.
- You Have Sufficient Jawbone Density: A dental implant is a titanium post that fuses directly with your jawbone, a process called osseointegration. For this to happen, you need enough healthy bone to support the implant. If you’ve been missing a tooth for a while, you may have experienced some bone loss. Don’t worry, a bone graft can often rebuild the area, making you an eligible candidate.
- You Are a Non-Smoker (or Willing to Quit): Smoking can significantly hinder the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure. It restricts blood flow to the gums, making it harder for the implant to integrate with your bone. Being a non-smoker or committing to quitting before and after the procedure greatly improves your chances of long-term success.
- You Are Committed to Oral Hygiene: Taking care of your dental implant is just like caring for your natural teeth. A commitment to daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups is essential to keep your implant, gums, and surrounding teeth healthy for years to come.
The Unmistakable Advantages of Dental Implants
Choosing dental implants is an investment in your long-term health and well-being. The benefits go far beyond just filling a gap in your smile.
- Looks and Feels Like a Natural Tooth: Implants are designed to fuse with your bone, becoming a permanent part of you. They offer stability and comfort that other options like dentures can’t match.
- Prevents Bone Loss: When you lose a tooth, the jawbone in that area begins to deteriorate. An implant stimulates the bone, just like a natural tooth root, preserving your facial structure.
- Restores Full Chewing Power: You can eat your favorite foods with confidence. Implants restore your ability to bite and chew without slipping or discomfort.
- Long-Lasting and Durable: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them one of the most cost-effective solutions over time.
Schedule a Tooth Implant Consultation in Jefferson City
The best way to know for sure if you are a candidate for dental implants is to meet with an expert. Dr. Justin Johnson and the team at Jefferson City Dental Care have the skill and technology to assess your unique situation and create a personalized treatment plan.
Let us help you rediscover the comfort and confidence of a complete, healthy smile. Contact Jefferson City Dental Care today to schedule your consultation.
