Losing a tooth can impact more than just your smile; it affects your ability to chew, your speech, and even your confidence. If you’re exploring options for tooth replacement, dental implants offer a permanent and natural-feeling solution. But how do you know if they are the right choice for you? At Bow Family Dentistry, we help patients from Bow, Concord, Manchester, and Hooksett understand their options for a complete, healthy smile.
Dr. Sarah K. Katz delivers modern, comprehensive care that is both precise and personal. With extensive hands-on and advanced education from respected institutions, including specialized training in the Fundamentals of Implant Planning and Surgery, Dr. Katz has the expertise to guide you through the process. Here is a helpful checklist to determine if you might be a good candidate for dental implants.
Your Dental Implant Candidacy Checklist
Candidates for dental implants typically have good oral health, sufficient jawbone density, healthy gums, and a commitment to maintaining proper dental hygiene and regular checkups
A successful dental implant procedure depends on a few key factors. Consider the following points to see if you are a potential candidate:
- Good Overall Health: Your body’s ability to heal is crucial for the implant process. Patients with uncontrolled chronic conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, may need to manage these issues before proceeding with surgery. A healthy immune system supports the successful integration of the implant with your jawbone.
- Sufficient Jawbone Density: Dental implants are anchored directly into the jawbone. If a tooth has been missing for a while, the bone in that area may have started to deteriorate. Dr. Katz will use advanced imaging to assess your bone volume. If it is insufficient, a bone graft may be recommended to create a stable foundation.
- Healthy Gums: Your gums must be free from periodontal (gum) disease. Active gum disease can compromise the implant site and lead to implant failure. We will ensure your gums are healthy before beginning any implant treatment.
- Commitment to Oral Hygiene: Long-term success requires a commitment to excellent oral care. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and attending regular dental checkups are essential to keeping your implant, surrounding teeth, and gums healthy.
- Non-Smoker: Smoking can significantly hinder the healing process and increases the risk of implant failure. We advise patients to quit smoking before and after the procedure to ensure the best possible outcome.
The Dental Implant Process at Bow Family Dentistry
The journey to a new smile is a multi-step process. First, Dr. Katz will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including digital X-rays, to create a personalized treatment plan. Next, a small, biocompatible titanium post is surgically placed into your jawbone. Over the next few months, this post will fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration.
Once healing is complete, an abutment is attached to the post. This connector piece serves as the base for your new tooth. Finally, a custom-crafted crown is secured to the abutment. At Bow Family Dentistry, we design your restoration to look, feel, and function just like your natural teeth, seamlessly blending with your smile.
Why Consider Dental Implants?
Dental implants are the gold standard for tooth replacement because they mimic the structure of a natural tooth, from root to crown. They provide stability that other options like bridges or dentures cannot, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with renewed confidence. By stimulating the jawbone, they also prevent bone loss and preserve your facial structure.
If you are ready to explore a permanent solution for missing teeth, contact Bow Family Dentistry today. Dr. Katz and our dedicated team are here to provide the personalized, expert care you deserve.
