Who is a candidate for implants?

Dental implant is the most effective treatment available to replace a missing tooth. In both functional as well as aesthetic terms, a dental implant provides superior benefits as compared to traditional bridgework or dentures. The longevity of a dental implant is very high, and it does not require any special care or maintenance either. Therefore, many dentists around the world recommend dental implants as the first choice for tooth replacement.

Almost anyone who suffers from a missing tooth and is keen to restore the tooth function is a candidate for a dental implant. In most cases, the body responds favorably to the implant and receives as a natural tooth root. The success rate of dental implants is very high because it integrates with the bone, and performs the same function as a natural tooth root.

People who use dentures also make good candidates for an implant. An implant helps to provide stability to the dentures in the mouth. As a result, patient comfort gets enhanced because the dentures are maintained firmly in place with the help of implants.

However, there are a few exceptions where the dentist may not recommend a dental implant. Someone who has been a heavy smoker for several years may not be a good candidate for an implant surgery. Due to excessive smoking, the oral health may get compromised to an extent where an implant may not hold in its place. Similarly, people with specific medical conditions may have to avoid an implant surgery. In case where the diabetes is not under control, it is not advisable to opt for a dental implant.

Kids and teenagers may not be good candidates for an implant. Youngsters go through a high growth phase during the age of 12 to 14 years, therefore an implant is not recommended before or during this age. This is because there is a physical possibility of a congenitally missing tooth to grow at this age. Different dentists have a different opinion about the threshold age for implants, but generally implants are not recommended for kids below 18 years.

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