Losing a tooth can impact more than just your smile; it affects your confidence, your ability to chew, and even the health of your jaw. At Mirelez Wellness Dental, we understand the importance of a complete, healthy smile. Under the expert care of Dr. J. Art Mirelez and Dr. Christopher R. Gates, residents of Fresno and Clovis have access to premier implant dentistry designed to restore both function and appearance.
If you’re considering a permanent solution for missing teeth, you might be wondering if dental implants are right for you. Let’s review a checklist of factors that determine a good candidate for this life-changing procedure.
The Ideal Candidate Checklist
Dental implants are a highly successful and durable tooth replacement option. Success starts with ensuring you meet the right criteria. Here’s what we look for:
- Good Overall Health: General health plays a significant role. If you can undergo a routine dental procedure, like an extraction, you are likely healthy enough for an implant.
- Sufficient Jawbone Density: Implants need a strong foundation. They are placed directly into the jawbone, so having adequate bone volume and density is crucial for a successful fusion process.
- Healthy Gums: Healthy gum tissue is essential for supporting an implant. Candidates should be free from periodontal (gum) disease.
- Commitment to Oral Hygiene: A successful implant requires the same care as natural teeth, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.
- Non-Smoker: While not an absolute disqualifier, smoking can hinder the healing process and lower the success rate of implant integration.
Why Replacing a Missing Tooth is Crucial
Leaving a gap in your smile can lead to several problems. Neighboring teeth may shift into the empty space, causing bite misalignment. It can also lead to bone loss in the jaw, as the bone is no longer stimulated by the tooth root. This bone deterioration can alter your facial structure over time. Replacing the tooth promptly preserves your oral health and facial aesthetics.
Implants vs. Dentures: Which is Right for You?
When choosing a tooth replacement, many patients compare implants and dentures. Dentures are a removable option that rests on the gums. While effective, they can sometimes slip and may require adhesives.
Dental implants, on the other hand, are a permanent solution. A titanium post acts as an artificial tooth root, which is surgically placed into the jawbone. This provides a stable base for a custom-made crown. Because they are fixed in place, implants look, feel, and function just like natural teeth.
Advantages of Choosing Dental Implants
The benefits of dental implants are clear. They offer superior stability, prevent jawbone loss, and allow you to eat your favorite foods without worry. They also eliminate the maintenance associated with removable dentures. With proper care, implants can last a lifetime, making them an excellent long-term investment in your health and confidence.
Premier Implant Dentistry in Fresno
At Mirelez Wellness Dental, Dr. J. Art Mirelez and Dr. Christopher R. Gates combine advanced technology with years of specialized experience to provide exceptional implant results. We guide our patients through every step of the process, from the initial consultation to the final restoration. If you’re ready to restore your smile in Fresno or Clovis, contact us to schedule your consultation and see if dental implants are the right choice for you.
