Dental implants are recommended when you have missing teeth and want a strong, long-lasting replacement option. They are like artificial tooth roots made of titanium, which are placed in your jawbone.
If you lost a tooth due to injury, decay, or other reasons, a dental implant can be a great choice to fill the gap. It provides stability and looks just like a natural tooth. Dental implants also prevent bone loss and help maintain your facial structure. Read more about dental implants in Singapore on this page; https://tesclinic.com/services/dental-implants-singapore/.
Are Dental Implants Suitable for Everyone?
As already mentioned, dental implants can be a fantastic solution if you’re seeking a durable and effective way to replace missing or damaged teeth. However, it’s essential to recognize that dental implants are not universally suitable for everyone.
There are specific criteria that must be met to ensure successful outcomes. Also these criteria have to be met to avoid potential complications. Oral and dental surgeons prioritize assessing a patient’s eligibility for dental implants for several crucial reasons.
However, assuming you’re deemed a good candidate for dental implants, you can enjoy several advantages over alternative tooth replacement options like;
- Enhanced Aesthetics: Dental implants are designed to closely mimic natural teeth’ appearance. They are customized to match the surrounding teeth’ color, shape, and size, resulting in a seamless and aesthetically pleasing smile. Unlike other options like dentures, which can look artificial and may shift while speaking or eating, dental implants offer a confident and natural-looking smile.
- Improved Functionality: Dental implants function just like natural teeth, allowing individuals to chew, speak, and bite with ease and confidence. Unlike removable dentures, which can limit dietary choices and require special care, dental implants enable patients to enjoy their favorite foods and maintain their oral hygiene routine without any inconvenience.
- Durability and Longevity: With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. While other tooth replacement options may require periodic adjustments or replacements, dental implants are a long-term solution that provides reliable results. This longevity makes them a cost-effective investment in the long run, as they eliminate the need for frequent replacements.
So, are there People who cannot get Dental Implants?
While dental implants are a highly effective tooth replacement option for many individuals, not everyone is a suitable candidate for this procedure. Several factors can disqualify certain groups from getting dental implants due to potential risks and challenges. Here are the groups of people who may be considered not be eligible for dental implants in Singapore;
- Those who have Insufficient Jawbone Density: Dental implants require a strong and healthy jawbone to serve as a sturdy foundation for the implant. If your jawbone lacks adequate density or volume, it may not provide the necessary support for the implant. With lack of enough support, you will have increased risks of suffering dental implant failure. Jawbone density can be compromised due to various factors, such as prolonged tooth loss, gum disease, or osteoporosis. In such cases, bone grafting procedures might be considered to augment the jawbone and create a suitable environment for successful implant placement.
- Having Uncontrolled Gum Disease (Periodontitis): Gum disease can weaken the supporting structures of the teeth. This includes both the gums and jawbone. Implant surgery in individuals with active gum disease increases the risk of infection and implant failure. So, it is essential that you have healthy gums and good oral hygiene habits before undergoing dental implant surgery. In cases of gum disease, your dentist or periodontist will recommend appropriate treatment. They will also closely monitor your condition before considering implant placement.
- Young Patients with Incomplete Jaw Growth: Dental implants are typically not recommended for young persons whose jaws are still developing. Implant placement could interfere with the natural growth and alignment of the jawbone, potentially leading to dental and facial complications as the individual ages. In such cases, alternative tooth replacement options like removable partial dentures or bridges may be considered until the jawbone reaches full maturity.
- Pregnant Women: Pregnancy introduces hormonal changes in a woman’s body, which can impact oral health. Also, the use of anesthesia and certain medications during dental implant surgery might not be advisable during pregnancy. For the safety of both the mother and the baby, dental implant surgery is generally postponed until after childbirth. Also, you’d only be given the green light to get the treatment when you’re no longer breastfeeding.
- Smokers: Smoking is associated with a higher risk of implant failure and complications during healing. Smoking can impair blood flow to the gums and jawbone, which is crucial for proper healing and osseointegration of the implant. The chemicals in tobacco can also increase the likelihood of infections. Dentists often encourage smokers to quit smoking before considering dental implants to improve the chances of successful outcomes.
- Certain Medical Conditions: Specific medical conditions can pose risks to the success of dental implant surgery. For example, uncontrolled diabetes can impair your body’s ability to heal. With a decreased healing ability, you will have an increased risk of infections. Immune system disorders and autoimmune diseases may also interfere with the healing process. Also, patients undergoing radiation therapy in the head and neck region might not be suitable candidates for dental implants. This is due to potential complications in the irradiated area.
- Certain Medications: There are also medications that can affect bone health and healing. If you’re on such medications, they may make dental implants less viable for you. For instance, bisphosphonates, which are used to treat osteoporosis and other bone-related conditions, can hinder bone healing and osseointegration. If you’re on these medications, you may need to explore alternative tooth replacement options. Alternatively, discuss possible adjustments to your treatment plan with your doctor.
- Patients with Compromised Immune Systems: Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, may experience delayed healing and increased susceptibility to infections after dental implant surgery. So, if you have a compromised immune system, your oral surgeon may advise against dental implants to avoid potential complications.
Closing Thoughts
Dental implants can be an excellent choice for those who qualify as good candidates for the procedure. You only need to meet the set criteria to enjoy the advantages that come with dental implants to restore your smiles and confidence for years to come.
At the TES Clinic for Face and Jaw, we prioritize your oral health. To schedule a consultation today and explore the best tooth replacement options tailored to your needs, call or visit us at;
TES Clinic for Face and Jaw
304 Orchard Road,
Lucky Plaza Suites #05-42,
Orchard Medical Specialists,
Singapore 238863
+65 6737 0552 / +65 9735 9930