Are You a Good Fit for Life-Changing Dental Implants?

Dental implants have revolutionized the field of restorative dentistry, offering a permanent solution for missing teeth that looks, feels, and functions just like natural teeth. However, not everyone is an ideal candidate for this innovative procedure. At Foxview Dental, we’re committed to helping you understand if dental implants are the right choice for your oral health needs.

Ready to find out if you’re a good candidate for dental implants? Call our De Pere dental practice at (920) 336-4201 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Chad at Foxview Dental.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are revolutionary tooth replacements. During this surgical procedure, small titanium screw-like posts are inserted into the jawbone. A period of osseointegration allows the implant and bone to fuse, providing a sturdy base for attaching artificial teeth. 

Custom-made realistic-looking porcelain crowns, bridges, or dentures are then attached to the top portion of the implants. The result is a beautiful, natural-looking smile!

The Importance of a Comprehensive Evaluation

At Foxview Dental, we believe in a thorough assessment before recommending any treatment. Our Green Bay dentist, Dr. Chad Yenchesky, conducts a comprehensive evaluation to determine your candidacy for dental implants. This evaluation includes:

• A detailed review of your medical and dental history
• A thorough oral examination
• Advanced imaging techniques, such as 3D scans, to assess bone quality and quantity
• Discussion of your goals and expectations

What Makes a Good Dental Implant Candidate?

Bone Density and Quality

Sufficient bone density is a key factor in dental implant success. The implant needs to integrate with your jawbone to provide a stable foundation for your new tooth. If you’ve experienced bone loss due to missing teeth or other factors, you may need a bone grafting procedure before implant placement.

Oral Health Status

Your overall oral health plays a significant role in determining your suitability for dental implants. Issues such as active gum disease, tooth decay, or oral infections need to be addressed before implant surgery can be considered.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions can impact your body’s ability to heal and may affect the success of dental implants. These include:

• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Autoimmune disorders
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Osteoporosis

It’s important to discuss your full medical history with Dr. Chad during your consultation at Foxview Dental.

Lifestyle Factors

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can negatively impact the healing process and long-term success of dental implants. If you smoke, you may be asked to quit or significantly reduce your tobacco use before and after the implant procedure.

Preparing for Dental Implant Surgery

If you’re deemed a good candidate for dental implants, there are several steps you can take to prepare for the procedure:

1. Follow pre-operative instructions: Dr. Yenchesky will provide specific guidelines to follow before your surgery.
2. Arrange transportation: You’ll need someone to drive you home after the procedure, especially if sedation is used.
3. Plan for recovery time: While many patients return to work the next day, it’s wise to allow for some downtime.
4. Stock up on soft foods: Your diet will be restricted for a short period after surgery.
5. Prepare your home: Set up a comfortable recovery area with everything you might need within easy reach.

Who’s Not A Candidate For Dental Implants?

Certain situations and health conditions may prevent candidates from being suitable for implants. These include:

• Uncontrolled chronic conditions like diabetes or autoimmune disorders
• Active radiation treatment or chemotherapy for cancer
• Metabolic or hormonal disorders like osteoporosis
• Chronic conditions that require steroid treatment or anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medications
• Immunosuppressive disorders or medications
• Alcohol or substance abuse
• Insufficient bone density or volume
• Unresolved periodontal (gum) disease

During your exam, we’ll discuss your unique health history and risk factors to determine if implants are right for you. We may recommend supplemental procedures to optimize your candidacy and success.

Supplemental Procedures

If you’re not initially a candidate for implants, supplemental treatments may be recommended to prepare your mouth. Some examples include:

• Bone Grafting: Materials like your own bone, synthetic bone, or donated bone can be placed to increase bone volume.
• Soft Tissue Grafting: The gums can be augmented with soft tissue grafts.
• Sinus Lift: Adds bone beneath the maxillary sinuses when needed for posterior implants.
• Ridge Expansion: Makes narrow ridges wider to accommodate implant diameter.

With strategic planning and sequenced treatments, implants can often become a possibility for borderline candidates. Schedule an exam at our Green Bay dental office so we can perform a comprehensive evaluation.

Alternative Options for Those Not Suitable for Dental Implants

If you’re not a candidate for dental implants, don’t worry. There are other effective tooth replacement options available:

• Dental Bridges: A fixed solution that uses adjacent teeth for support
• Partial Dentures: Removable appliances that replace multiple missing teeth
• Full Dentures: Complete tooth replacement for those missing all teeth in an arch

Dr. Chad will discuss these alternatives with you if implants aren’t the best option for your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Schedule Your Consultation to Find Out if Dental Implants are Right for You

Are you ready to discover if dental implants are the right solution for your missing teeth? At Foxview Dental, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process. Dr. Chad Yenchesky and our experienced team are committed to providing exceptional care and achieving outstanding results.

Don’t let missing teeth hold you back any longer. Call Foxview Dental today at (920) 336-4201 to schedule your Green Bay dental implant consultation. We proudly serve patients in De Pere and the surrounding areas of Green Bay, Ashwaubenon, and Allouez. Let us help you restore your smile and confidence with the transformative power of dental implants.