Although practically no treatment in the medical and dental fields has a 100 percent success rate, some come close to achieving perfection! Dental implants, for example, are successful in 98 percent of cases soon after placement, and up to 90 percent are still functioning well after 20 years. How have dental implants reached this level of success? Explore the reasons in the content below.
A Thorough Consultation and Evaluation
Getting dental implants differs from ordering straight off a menu. Not everyone qualifies for this treatment right away, and your dentist will make sure you’re a good candidate before starting it.
At your consultation, your dentist will closely examine your gums and any remaining teeth to make sure your mouth is healthy and infection free. In addition, they will take digital X-rays of your oral cavity to see if you have sufficient bone tissue to support implants.
They will also ask you about your medical history and current medications and conditions because sometimes these can interfere with implants. For instance, if you have poorly controlled diabetes, you’re more likely to struggle to heal properly after the placement surgery.
By screening you for these requirements, your dentist sets you up for a more successful treatment from the very first step. If you don’t initially qualify, your dentist can work with you to correct the obstacle and get you ready to begin treatment.
Specialists with Advanced Technology and Training
While some general dentists claim to have the expertise to place dental implants, this minor surgery is one of the most complex procedures in the dental field. To ensure a positive outcome, your dentist may refer you to a trusted local specialist in implant placement. These highly trained professionals have certifications, use cutting-edge technology, and have years of focused experience. As a result, you can feel more confident that your surgery will be performed correctly and safely, increasing the odds of success.
Customization for Your Own Smile
Regardless of your tooth-loss situation, dental implants can be personalized to meet your needs. Instead of forcing you to wear a full denture, your dentist can create a customized plan to fit your mouth efficiently and give you a smile that looks and feels as natural as it possibly can with prosthetic teeth!
Regular Maintenance and Early Intervention to Avoid Failure
Even years after implant placement, failure can still happen if you neglect your oral health. However, if you continue to practice healthy choices in your lifestyle, you can enjoy success for decades!
Fortunately, maintenance for these prosthetic teeth is remarkably simple and looks like your oral healthcare routine before tooth loss. You must brush and floss your teeth (yes, even your false ones) every day. Visiting your general dentist routinely can also ensure long-term wellness not only because their staff can remove any stuck calculus you’ve missed but also because they can identify any developing problems before your smile gets in a dangerous position for failure.
While you aren’t guaranteed success when you get dental implants, you can rely on their record of happy patients with long-term smiles, your competent general dentist, and their referred specialist to guide you through and help you keep your implants in excellent condition for years.
About the Author
From the time that Dr. Leeza Stein started her training at the Texas A&M College of Dentistry, she has prioritized obtaining as much knowledge to help her patients, no matter their needs. As a result, she is familiar with many fields in dentistry, including endodontic (root canal treatment), Invisalign, and treatment planning, and she works with implant specialists in the area that have proven their excellence to ensure success for her patients. Would you like to discuss dental implants or other services with Dr. Stein? Contact LS Smiles online or call the Rockwall office at 972-771-2213 to schedule an appointment.