Most people are good candidates for Dental Implants in Puyallup WA, but some are at greater risk of implants not fusing completely with the jawbone. However, they may be able to resolve their specific problem either through medical treatment or behavior changes.
Tobacco Use
Tobacco use is a major risk factor for implant failure. The patient will have trouble finding any dentist who will place implants if he or she is still actively smoking or chewing tobacco. The toxins in the products weaken bone structure in the jaw. If the patient quits for good, this person may become a good candidate for Dental Implants in Puyallup WA. It’s imperative that this individual never starts using tobacco again or the damage to the bone and gum tissue will begin again.
Bone Grafting
In some cases, the bone structure is already too compromised for implants because of smoking. If the patient has already quit, bone grafting should be able to restore enough density and strength for implants. This takes time, as the graft first is placed and then new bone cells gradually grow and attach to this graft. The procedure requires oral surgery, but many general dentists are qualified to place implants.
Osteoporosis
Jawbone deterioration sometimes is not associated with smoking. It can happen because of osteoporosis, for example. This condition is common in women after menopause; it causes gradual bone loss. It also can happen when teeth have been lost previously and the person has worn dentures for a long time. Without stimulation from teeth roots or implants during chewing, the bone does not produce enough new cells. Again, bone grafting in the jaw often can resolve the problem in this specific area.
Scheduling a Consultation
These details may make a person with insufficient jawbone density feel very hesitant about moving forward with the goal of getting dental implants. Factors such as the person’s age, psychological ability to deal with the short-term discomfort of the procedures, and strong preference for implants should be taken into consideration. There is no reason to avoid having a consultation with a clinic such as Meridian South Family Dentistry.
