Dental implants can be implanted in anyone regardless of age (in a fully developed jaw), as long as the patient has a sufficient amount of bone tissue. Most healthy people with good oral hygiene are suitable for dental implants.
Circumstances that influence negatively the dental implant surgery and its outcome:
- heavy smoking: sets back the healing process, and poses a risk of infection
- excessive alcohol consumption: sets back healing process of the gums
- periodontal disease: it must be treated before dental implantation, as severe gingival atrophy can lead to thinning of the bone mass in the jaw
- patients with weak immune system: steroids, patients undergoing radiation treatment, auto-immune disease
- bruxism: tooth grinders might need a nightguard to help relieving pressure from the artificial roots and prevent splintering of crowns
- diabetes: it slows down the healing process, increases the risk of infections and other complications
Can I have dental implants if I am grinding teeth?
Yes, it is absolutely possible, it is not even an unusual problem. Unconsciously, anyone can face it while sleeping. If you know about this disfunction of yours, please let your dentist know about it so they can suggest you mouthguard accordingly.
The importance of having enough bone mass
One of the most important conditions of dental implantation is sufficient bone mass. Special examinations are needed to be able to decide if the quality and the quantity of the bone is enough for the dental implant surgery.
Therefore, we perform an X-ray and a CT scan and the dentist evaluates the density of the bone, also examines the dental hygiene state of the neighboring tissues, nerves, etc. If the bone is not enough, bone graft or sinus lift might be necessary before the dental implant surgery.
This process is safe if you have a good oral hygiene, general health state and you are rested.
How lasting is the dental implant?
A dental implant is a lifelong solution to tooth replacement. It is important to follow all the dentist’s instructions. If oral hygiene is properly maintained, it is unlikely that any problems will arise.
