If you have one or more of your teeth missing, you'll want to choose the best option possible for replacing your teeth. One very valid option is dental implants. They give you a permanent replacement for your missing teeth that look and feel like your natural ones. Also, they require no more maintenance than your natural teeth do. Although dental implants are a great option, they aren't for everyone. You can learn more about implants in this article so that you can determine whether or not they may be the right choice for you.

How implants are put in

When you get an implant, there is a post that goes in your gum and gets fused to your jawbone. This holds the implant in place and acts as the root of a natural tooth does. While this can be a good thing, there are times when it may make this option one that may not work for you.

Clenching and grinding: One big difference with regards to how the fusing of the post works is it doesn't allow flexibility. Your natural teeth allow for a small amount of movement, where the implant doesn't. Therefore, if you clench your teeth often or you grind them, the implant may take on too much stress.

Gum disease: Gum disease can lead to tooth loss and if it played part in your tooth loss, or you currently have gum disease, then you are not a good candidate for implants as long as gum disease is an issue. Your dentist may be able to treat you for gum disease and get you to a point where this is no longer an issue and implants can be successfully used.

Slow healing: If you have diabetes or another condition that causes you to heal at a slower than normal rate, then dental implants may not be the right choice.

Insufficient bone density: If you are lacking sufficient bone density, this will present a big problem with regards to dental implants. However, if you are determined to go with them then you may be able to have a bone graft procedure done which will help restore your jaw's bone density to the point where the implants will take.

If you aren't a good candidate for dental implants, your dentist can suggest other options. These options will also depend on many different factors such as the location of your missing teeth, the number of teeth you are missing and any other problems. Bridges and dentures are a couple of examples of other possible choices you may have available to you. For more information, contact a professional like those at Image Dentistry.