30
Dec
Dental Implants: Understanding Their Limitations
If you’re dealing with missing teeth, chances are you’re looking at restorative treatments. At Flower Mound Dental, we offer numerous options for replacing lost teeth, ranging from dentures and bridges to dental implants. For many, implants are the perfect tooth loss solution as they look, feel, and act like natural teeth. However, implants have their limitations and may not be suitable for everyone. Dr. William Wyatt, your dentist in Flower Mound, Texas, answers questions about the limitations of implants to assist you in deciding if implant surgery is right for you.
What makes you unsuitable for dental implants?
The best implant candidates are people with relatively good health, good oral health and sufficient bone density to support the implants. Getting implants requires oral surgery. Certain health issues or lifestyle habits like smoking can interfere with your healing, putting you at greater risk of implant failure. It would help if you also had a healthy mouth for implants. People with active periodontal disease aren’t good candidates for dental implants as the infection can cause the implant to fail.
Do all your teeth need to be pulled to get implants?
No, not unless you want implant dentures. Then, most or all of your teeth will need to be removed for your treatment. Most people, however, replace one or several missing teeth with implants. Single implants with dental crowns can replace one or more teeth individually. Dr. Wyatt recommends a fixed bridge with implants on either side for support to replace multiple teeth in a row.
Is there a time limit to getting implants after losing one or more teeth?
We recommend waiting a few months after losing or removing your teeth to get implants. This gives your mouth a chance to heal. Delaying tooth replacement can lead to significant bone loss, requiring bone grafting before treatment.
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New Patients: (972) 351-8555 | Existing Patients: (972) 355-2222
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Is there an age limit to getting dental implants?
Theoretically, there’s no age limit for getting implants. Elderly seniors in their 80s or older have been known to have this treatment. The main factor to consider when it comes to age is overall health. Dr. Wyatt will review your medical history, medications, prior surgical procedures, and response to anesthesia to help determine if you’re a good candidate for implants. Each case will be decided on its own merits.
Can implants fail?
Implants have a 95% success rate, but they’re not infallible. Infection is usually the reason an implant fails. This can easily be prevented by practicing good oral hygiene and seeing your dentist regularly for routine cleanings. Poor implant placement and inadequate screening are additional reasons why implants may fail. These problems can be avoided by working with a skilled implant dentist like Dr. Wyatt for your treatment.Â
Who offers safe and effective tooth implant surgery near me?
Residents of Flower Mound, TX, can turn to Dr. William Wyatt from Flower Mound Dental for quality implant treatment. Contact us at (972) 351-8555 to schedule a consultation.