Dental implants are a fantastic way to replace missing teeth, and most adults in good general health are suitable. But there are a few things that can affect whether implants are right for you, or whether some extra preparation is needed first. Here are the five main things we look at.
An implant needs enough healthy bone around it to stay secure. After a tooth is lost, the bone in that area gradually shrinks, so the longer a tooth has been missing, the more bone may have been lost.
If there is not quite enough bone, it can often be rebuilt with a bone graft or, in the upper back jaw, a sinus lift. We check your bone levels with x-rays or scans at your consultation.
Healthy gums are essential for implants to succeed. Active gum disease increases the risk of problems around an implant, so we will treat any gum issues first. Regular hygiene appointments also help protect your implants for the long term.
Some medical conditions and medications can affect healing, such as poorly controlled diabetes or certain bone medications. This does not always rule implants out, but it is important that we know your full medical history so we can plan safely.
Smoking reduces blood flow to the gums and slows healing, which increases the risk of implants failing. If you smoke, we will talk honestly with you about the risks. Stopping, even around the time of treatment, can make a real difference.
Implants cannot get tooth decay, but the gum and bone around them can still become inflamed if they are not kept clean. Good brushing, cleaning between teeth and regular check-ups are essential for keeping your implants healthy.
There is no upper age limit for implants. Many older patients have implants very successfully. What matters more is your overall health. Implants are not usually placed in teenagers, as the jaw needs to finish growing first.
If implants are not suitable, there are other good options, including bridges and dentures. We will always talk you through every option.
The best way to find out is a consultation with dr nikhil patel, who holds a diploma in implantology from the royal college of surgeons edinburgh. An implant consultation costs £50. Call us on 01494 527971 to book.
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