So, your dentist recommended dental implant surgery.

But the thing is, you feel unsure about moving forward. Questions are running through your mind, and you’re feeling hesitant.  

“Is it worth the money?”

“Will the implants fail?”

“How long will the procedure take?”

“How do I know this is really necessary?”

“Would it be better to get a different tooth replacement option instead?”

 If you feel like you’re in the dark about whether or not implants are really the right option for you, here are 8 things to consider in your decision-making process. 

1. Not everyone is a candidate for a dental implant. 

Here’s the thing: you need to know whether or not you are one of those candidates, because there are a few people who would indeed need a different tooth replacement option. So, what kind of factors determine whether or not dental implants will work for you? In order to be a candidate for the procedure, not only do you have to have optimal jawbone density, but your oral health also needs to be in good shape. 

Also, If you have a chronic health condition like diabetes or leukemia, implants might not be for you. Why? They can interfere with the healing process after the implant surgery. If you smoke or use tobacco, you’re going to have to quit before you are a candidate for the procedure, because it impedes the implant process and can lead to problems like implant failure. Also, growing children cannot get dental implants until their jawbone is completely developed. 

2. Gum disease must be addressed prior to implant surgery.

As you might have guessed, people with gum disease aren’t eligible for implant surgery. But if gum recession or gum disease are holding you back from moving forward with the procedure, you don’t have to let them! Talk to your doctor about treatment for gum disease and what it entails. For some people with severe periodontitis, they won’t have enough jawbone mass for an implant placement. The good news is that these cases are rare. Getting gum disease, if you have it, under control is the first step to getting your new tooth implant. 

3. Implant surgery and placement has a very high success rate.

Not only are implants commonly done, they also have a 90-95% long term success rate, which is very good when it comes to medical and dental procedures. Decrease your risk even further by addressing all the concerns mentioned above (see points 1 and 2). 

The best way to ensure that your implant stays strong after a successful procedure is to maintain optimal oral care. You’ll also want to continue seeing your dentist on a regular basis to help ensure that your implant site remains healthy.

4. Determine the success rate the doctor has with placing implants.

Implants have an excellent success rate, and you can increase your chances of having your implant surgery successful by finding a good implant surgeon.  

Ask what kind of experience your doctor has to help determine if they are a good fit. For how many years have they been placing implants? What percentage of their patients have success? Read Google reviews, do your research, and ask your questions. It’s important that you know you’re in the best hands. 

5. Implants are common – and well-liked.

Did you know that over 5 percent of people in America  have one or more dental implants? Yes, they’re a common procedure. Many people have replaced full arches with dental implant solutions like all-on-4. 

Not only are implants common, in most cases people who get them are happy with them. Implants function and feel so similar to natural teeth that everyday activities like eating and speaking become easier. And, one of the best things about single implants and whole arch replacements like all-on-4 is that they are aesthetically pleasing. Chances are you know someone such as a friend, a family member, or a neighbor who has had an implant procedure done. You could ask them if the benefits were worth the investment of time and money.

6. Implants are well-studied, and they are good for your jawbone.

Not only has the safety of dental implants been studied, they’ve been proven to be beneficial for the structure and integrity of your jawbone! “Wait,” you might ask, “how exactly does this work?” 

Think about natural permanent teeth. Every tooth is supported by its root. One of the main functions of the root is to stimulate the jawbone, which preserves jawbone density. Without a tooth root, the jawbone begins to lose its density. Well, the good news is that titanium implants stimulate the jawbone in the same fashion that the natural roots of your teeth would, helping your jaw and facial structure stay in optimal, healthy shape. 

7. Dr. Aldahef loves when his patients ask questions. 

If you have any more questions, you should ask them to Dr. Aldahef. He encourages his patients to ask any questions that enter their mind before moving ahead with an implant procedure. It’s a big, exciting step to take, and it’s so important to be sure that it’s the right one for you. 

8. If you want to, go for that second opinion!

And, Dr. Aldahef offers second opinions at no extra cost to you. If you’re still unsure, go ahead – get a second opinion! There are alternative options for missing teeth, and you deserve to have input from multiple specialists on which option is best for your specific situation. 

If you need to book an appointment or want to schedule a consultation with Dr. Aldahaf, it’s a good time to do it. Your team at Dallas Cosmetic Dental near Highland Park, Texas, is excited to work with you and help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of having.