Philadelphia Implant Dentists Discuss Common Problems with Patient Candidacy

If you’ve ever read our blog, visited our website or performed any online research into solutions for missing teeth, then you’ve probably heard that dental implants have become the gold standard for tooth replacement. Their innovative design mimics the structure of a natural tooth and provides years of exceptional aesthetics and functionality. However, your research has probably also shown you that not everyone qualifies for dental implant placement. Today, your Philadelphia dental implant experts at By Design Dental discuss a couple of the most common obstacles that might prevent you from qualifying for this procedure, and provide some simple solutions to these problems.

Problem 1: Tobacco Use
Most implant dentists will not approve the procedure for patients who smoke or use chewing tobacco regularly. The chemicals contained in tobacco products–specifically nicotine, hydrogen cyanide, and carbon monoxide–interfere with the body’s ability to heal properly and deliver adequate amounts of blood to the jawbone. Smoking dramatically increases the chances of dental implant failure. Therefore, most implant dentists simply won’t perform the procedure on patients who use tobacco.

Solution: Of course, if a patient can quit smoking or using other tobacco products, he or she may be considered for dental implants.

Problem 2: Poor Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene, which leads to severe gum disease and tooth decay, is one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss in the U.S. Although dental implant-secured dentures and crowns are impervious to decay, the area around the implant can still succumb to a variation of gum disease called peri-implantitis (literally, an infection of the tissue surrounding an implant). If a person has consistently poor oral hygiene, he or she may not qualify for dental implants due to the heightened risk for implant failure.

Solution: An acceptable level of oral health is essential to qualifying for dental implants and, with some dedication, this can be attained by most people. Demonstrating a commitment to maintaining an at-home hygiene routine and receiving regular preventive dental care can help most people qualify for implants.

Schedule a Visit with Your Philadelphia Implant Dentist
If you have any further questions regarding the maintenance and care of your dental implants, contact your Philadelphia implant dentists today. Schedule a free thorough consultation by calling 484-231-1177. At By Design Dental, we provide affordable and convenient dental implants, employing the latest in implant technology to restore your smile to full function and appearance. Our Philadelphia Implant Dentists can Discuss more Common Problems with Patient Candidacy when you schedule a consultation.

We look forward to seeing you soon at our office located at The Atrium, 234 Mall Blvd., Suite 180, King of Prussia, PA 19406.