Missing teeth do more than just change the way your smile looks. They can affect how you chew, how you speak, and how confident you feel in social situations. If you have been hiding your smile or struggling with uncomfortable dentures, you might be wondering if there is a better solution.
At Create a Smile, PC in Bloomington, IN, we often recommend dental implants as the gold standard for tooth replacement. But is this procedure right for you? Dr. Ken Moore and Dr. Elena Wiser have helped countless patients from Bloomington, Bedford, and Ellettsville restore their smiles. Here is a checklist to help you understand if you are a prime candidate for dental implants.
Your Checklist for Dental Implant Success
A good candidate for dental implants typically has healthy gums, sufficient jawbone density, excellent oral hygiene, and a commitment to maintaining long-term dental health
Dental implants are incredibly durable and life-like, but they require a solid foundation. Unlike dentures that sit on top of the gums, implants are anchored directly into your jawbone. Because of this, candidacy depends on a few specific health factors.
1. Sufficient Bone Density
This is the most critical factor. The titanium post of the implant acts like a tooth root. For it to be stable, your jawbone must be strong and thick enough to hold it securely. When a tooth is lost, the bone in that area often begins to shrink. If you have experienced bone loss, you aren’t automatically disqualified, but you might need a bone graft procedure first to build up that foundation.
2. Healthy Gums
Your gums need to be free of periodontal disease. Gum disease is an infection that can damage the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth—and your future implants. Dr. Moore and Dr. Wiser will ensure your gums are healthy and infection-free before proceeding with implant surgery.
3. Good Overall Health
Since placing an implant is a surgical procedure, your body needs to be able to heal properly. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders can slow down healing and increase the risk of implant failure. It is important to discuss your full medical history with your dentist.
4. Non-Smoker Status
Smoking significantly hinders the healing process and reduces blood flow to the gums. While smokers can still get implants, the success rate drops. We strongly advise quitting or pausing smoking during the healing period to ensure the best results.
Understanding the Dental Implant Process
Knowing what to expect can make the decision easier. At Create a Smile, PC, we guide you through every step:
- Consultation: We take 3D scans to assess your bone levels and plan the precise placement.
- Placement: The implant post is surgically placed into the jawbone.
- Osseointegration: This is the healing phase, which usually takes a few months. The bone grows around the implant, locking it in place.
- Restoration: Once healed, we attach a custom-made crown that matches your natural teeth perfectly.
Why Choose Create a Smile, PC?
Residents in Bloomington, Bedford, and Ellettsville trust Dr. Ken Moore and Dr. Elena Wiser because they combine advanced technology with a compassionate approach. We don’t just fix teeth; we rebuild confidence. Our team ensures that your journey to a complete smile is comfortable, transparent, and successful.
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
If you checked off the items on this list—or even if you aren’t sure—the best next step is a professional evaluation. Don’t let missing teeth hold you back any longer.
Contact Create a Smile, PC today to schedule your consultation regarding dental implants in Bloomington, IN. Let’s build a smile that lasts a lifetime.
CONTACT CREATE A SMILE, PC – DR. KEN MOORE:
(812) 332-1405
LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):
2815 NORTH WALNUT
BLOOMINGTON, INDIANA
47404
