We know that missing and losing teeth can affect your health and confidence. It’s something that many people face and is nothing you should feel embarrassed about. We can help restore your smile and get you back to living your life to its fullest.

The best way to restore your smile and preserve your jawbone structure is with dental implants. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root (typically made of titanium) we place in your jaw that’s later covered by a crown, bridge or deture. But first, let’s discuss who would be a good candidate for implants.

AM I A CANDIDATE FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS?

The ideal candidate for dental implants is a non-smoker, has healthy gums, and has sufficient bone density in their jaw to support an implant. However, don’t feel like you must be the “perfect candidate” for dental implants to request a consultation with our dentist. There are plenty of options in our dental toolkit to find the right solution for restoring your smile.

NON-SMOKER

Do you smoke or use other types of tobacco products? If so, you may not be the best candidate for dental implants. There’s a definitive connection between your oral health and the rest of your body. Smokers increase their risks of the dental implant not fusing properly to their jawbone. People who smoke may also heal more slowly after the surgical procedure.

HEALTHY GUMS

The overall condition of both your teeth and gums ultimately affects oral health. Receding gums due to advanced periodontal disease, may negatively affect your dental implant procedure, but usually once we remove the bad teeth and roots, your gums will heal and support your new implants.

SUFFICIENT BONE DENSITY IN JAW

For some restorative options, like full-arch bridges, you’ll need to have sufficient bone density in your jaw. For an All-on-Four Hybrid Denture or Snap-On Denture, you can have moderate bone loss and still be a good candidate for dental implants.  

In almost all cases when teeth are removed, your dentist will recommend bone grafting to be sure your dental implant integrates successfully. 

GOOD ORAL HYGIENE

Many people need dental implants because of health or genetic reasons. It doesn’t matter how you took care of your teeth and oral health in the past. Once you get dental implants and have your smile restored, you need to be cognizant of your oral hygiene. The better you take care of your smile, the longer your dental implants are likely to last. 

To help your dental implants last for years, you’ll need to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once daily. You’ll also need to see the dentist at least every 6 months for a teeth cleaning and oral examination. We closely monitor the condition of your dental implants, so they last for years to come.

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT WITH US

The only way to know for sure if you’re a candidate for dental implants is by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Toland. He’ll be able to examine the inside of your mouth, as well as take a 3-d scan of your mouth to get a better picture of your oral health, bone structure, etc. He will also evaluate your medical history to determine if you’re healthy enough to undergo the dental implant procedure.

Dr. Laif Toland is a dental implant specialist in West Melbourne who is accepting new patients! He is dedicated to helping patients smile with confidence after tooth loss. To learn if you’re a candidate for the dental implant procedure, call 321-768-0991.