Discover Your Path to a Complete Smile with Our Local Implant Dentist
Missing a tooth or multiple teeth? Wondering if dental implants could be the permanent solution you’ve been searching for? At Dentiste with the best dentist in Kirkland, Dr. Roberts can help you understand your candidacy for this transformative treatment. Discover if you’re a good fit for a stable and natural-feeling smile.
Call (425) 284-0515 to schedule your dental implant candidacy evaluation. We proudly serve individuals exploring dental implant candidacy in Kirkland and neighboring communities such as Redmond, Bellevue, and beyond.
Call Your Local Kirkland Dentist for Your Implant Candidacy Evaluation
We understand that exploring tooth replacement options is a significant decision, and we are committed to providing thorough evaluations for residents across Kirkland, from those near the shops on Market Street to individuals seeking care convenient to their commute from areas around the Cross Kirkland Corridor. Dr. Roberts will assess your needs, discuss your health history, and utilize advanced imaging, similar to the technology used at local medical facilities, to determine your candidacy for dental implants.
Don’t let missing teeth impact your confidence or quality of life, especially when enjoying the local scene. Take the first step towards a complete and natural-feeling smile. Call Dentiste at (425) 284-0515 to schedule your dental implant candidacy evaluation.
Candidacy Factors for Dental Implants
Sufficient Jawbone Density and Health
Dental implants require a solid foundation of healthy jawbone to fuse with and provide stable support for the replacement teeth. Dr. Roberts utilizes advanced imaging techniques to evaluate the density and quality of your jawbone. If there has been significant bone loss due to prolonged tooth loss, a bone grafting procedure might be recommended to create an adequate implant site.
Good Overall Health
As a surgical procedure, receiving dental implants necessitates that you are in good general health. Certain systemic conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, severe cardiovascular disease, or compromised immune systems, can affect the healing process and the success rate of implants. Dr. Roberts will review your medical history thoroughly to ascertain your suitability.
Healthy Gums
The gums surrounding the implant site must be healthy and free from periodontal disease (gum disease). Active gum disease can compromise the integration of the implant and lead to complications. Dr. Roberts will conduct a comprehensive periodontal examination to evaluate your gum health and recommend any necessary treatment before proceeding with implant placement.
Commitment to Oral Hygiene
Commitment to Oral HygieneMaintaining meticulous oral hygiene is paramount for the long-term success of dental implants. Candidates must be willing and able to commit to a diligent routine of brushing, flossing, and regular professional cleanings at our Kirkland office to prevent peri-implantitis, an inflammatory condition that can affect the implant and surrounding bone.
Non-Smoker
Smoking significantly impairs the healing process and increases the risk of implant failure. Ideal candidates are non-smokers or are willing to quit smoking before undergoing implant treatment. Dr. Roberts can provide resources and support to help you quit.
Determining Your Dental Implant Candidacy
Determining your candidacy for dental implants at Dentiste in Kirkland with Dr. Roberts involves a comprehensive and personalized evaluation:
- Thorough Medical and Dental History Review: Dr. Roberts will discuss your past and present health conditions, medications you are taking, and your dental history to identify potential factors that might influence implant treatment.
- Comprehensive Oral Examination: This includes a visual assessment of your teeth, gums, and bite, as well as an evaluation of the edentulous (toothless) areas.
- Advanced Imaging: Dr. Roberts utilizes digital X-rays and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans to obtain detailed three-dimensional images of your jawbone, sinuses, and nerve pathways. This precise imaging is crucial for accurate treatment planning and implant placement.
- Discussion of Treatment Options: Based on the evaluation, Dr. Roberts will discuss whether dental implants are a suitable option for you and explain the entire treatment process, including any necessary preparatory procedures, the implant placement surgery, and the restoration phase.
Who Doesn’t Qualify for Dental Implants?
While many people are excellent candidates for dental implants, certain factors can make someone less qualified or require additional steps before considering implant placement. Here are some situations where an individual might not initially qualify for dental implants:
- Insufficient Jawbone Density or Quality: Dental implants need a solid foundation of bone to fuse with (osseointegration). If there isn’t enough bone density or the bone quality is poor, the implant may not be stable.
- Poor Overall Health: Certain uncontrolled systemic diseases can hinder healing and increase the risk of implant failure.
- Active Gum Disease (Periodontitis): Healthy gums are crucial for implant success. Active gum disease can lead to infection around the implant and eventual failure.
- Heavy Smoking: Smoking significantly impairs blood flow and healing, substantially increasing the risk of implant failure.
- Certain Medications: Some medications, like bisphosphonates used to treat osteoporosis, can, in rare cases, interfere with bone healing after implant surgery.
- Active Oral Infections or Untreated Dental Issues: Any active infections in the mouth, such as abscesses, or other untreated dental problems like significant tooth decay, need to be addressed before implant surgery.
How to Improve Your Dental Implant Candidacy with Dr. Roberts
While dental implants are a highly effective restorative procedure for missing teeth, some people may need to undergo supplemental procedures before starting treatment.
These procedures include:
- Bone Grafting: If you have lost a significant amount of jawbone, a bone graft may be necessary to build up the jawbone before the implant can be placed.
- Sinus Lift: If you’re missing upper back teeth, a sinus lift may be necessary to raise the sinus floor and make room for the implant.
- Ridge Augmentation: If the area where the implant is needed is too narrow or has a shallow ridge, ridge augmentation may be necessary to build up the area and provide a stable foundation for the implant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Adults with good overall health, sufficient jawbone density, and missing teeth are typically good candidates for dental implants. Healthy gums and no uncontrolled chronic health conditions, like diabetes, are important. Smokers or those with poor oral hygiene may need to address these issues first. Our dentist in Kirkland can evaluate your suitability through X-rays and an implant consultation.
Dental implants rarely cause headaches directly, but complications like improper placement or bite misalignment can lead to jaw tension or discomfort, potentially triggering headaches. Infections or sinus issues from upper jaw implants may also contribute to headaches. If headaches persist, contact your dentist for an evaluation.
Insufficient jawbone density, untreated gum disease, or uncontrolled medical conditions like diabetes or autoimmune disorders can prevent you from getting dental implants. Heavy smoking, poor oral hygiene, or certain medications may also disqualify you. Our Kirkland dentist may recommend bone grafting or other treatments to address some of these issues.
Dental Implants: The Start of a Smile Transformation Near You
Imagine the renewed confidence of a complete smile while enjoying a stroll through downtown Kirkland or sharing a meal with friends at a local eatery. Dr. Roberts and the compassionate team at Dentiste in Kirkland are dedicated to helping you determine your dental implant candidacy and guide you towards a lasting solution for missing teeth.
We welcome patients from Kirkland, Redmond, Bellevue, and the surrounding areas. Take the first step towards a healthier, more confident you. Call us today at (425) 284-0515 to schedule your dental implant evaluation!