Dental implants require surgery and for this reason a good candidate for them will be in overall good health. In addition, as the dental implant will be placed beneath the gums and fused with the jawbone, it is important that the prospective patient have healthy teeth, free of periodontal diseases, as well as strong bone density.

For those patients who have lower bone density, there are surgical procedures that can augment the bone so that it will support the weight of an implant and pressure of chewing. It is important to note that when a tooth is missing, the bone in that space diminishes over time. For this reason, if you are considering dental implants, time is of the essence.

If you are fortunate enough to have a high bone density, then you may be a good candidate for a newer version of dental implants called “immediate load implants.” Whereas regular implants require to dental visits with six months in between, to give the implant time to fuse to the jawbone. These specialized implants can be set into the jaw and loaded with the artificial tooth or crown in just one visit. Your doctor will need to perform a CT scan and X-ray to determine whether this procedure is appropriate for you.

There is no ideal age at which to have a dental implant placed. Many doctors simply prefer that patients have all of their adult teeth to eliminate the need for a replacement. Younger patients may be offered bridges in place of implants while they wait for their full set of permanent teeth.

Many people avoid the option of implants for fear of the associated pain. However, this should not stop you from taking steps to improve your smile. At your request, your dentist will use general anesthesia to help you cope with the pain.

If you are hiding your smile because it has lost its natural sparkle, Dr. Nathaniel Podilsky can provide implant dentistry in Alberta for you. There is no reason to feel self-conscious about your smile. Dr. Podilsky is a cosmetic dentist in Alberta and should be contacted today so you can take the first step toward the dazzling smile you dream of, and deserve!