The Increase Of Dental Implant Success Rates And Availability
Dental implants were invented longer ago than people generally realize. Yet only in recent decades have they become more widely available. Although most dental insurance policies still don't cover all or even some of the cost, prices have become much more reasonable over the years. In addition, advancements in technology and adjustments to the process have made implants suitable for people who previously were not good candidates.
Bone Grafting
Today, nearly everyone is a suitable candidate for dental implants. Some patients will require bone grafting first if their jawbone density has diminished somewhat. That can happen when teeth have been missing for a long time and the bone in that area does not receive stimulation from chewing.
Substances That Cause Problems
Tobacco Smoke
One exception to the good candidate population is a person with a smoking habit. Smoking tobacco is a risk factor for gum disease and can gradually deteriorate the bone structure underneath. That increases the chance of implant failure to a certain extent unless the person quits.
In addition, toxins in the smoke disrupt healing and could result in an infection. The habit also irritates gum tissue, and this tissue is especially sensitive after the procedure. The patient's gums could become inflamed. If the person doesn't refrain from tobacco use until the gum tissue is healed, these problems may occur.
The dental patient might view this as an ideal time to quit. The rate of implant success is relatively high for smokers, but nobody wants the ordeal of having loose devices removed and starting over again. That's a distressing outcome.
Antidepressants and Corticosteroids
Certain prescription medications also reduce bone density over time because they interfere with bone formation. Because the body gradually absorbs older bone cells, new ones are continuously needed. Some antidepressants reduce this cell production. The doctor could provide a prescription for a different medication.
Corticosteroids have the same effect when taken for a long time. Those drugs are most commonly used long-term for people with autoimmune conditions since the medicine reduces inflammation.
Financial Considerations
Some dental insurance providers pay for a significant amount of the devices and the surgery. The number of companies offering this coverage is likely to increase since dentists and their organizations strongly encourage them to do so. The physical and psychological benefits to patients can be remarkable.
If someone cannot afford implants right away, this individual may be able to save money regularly and have them placed later. A bridge or a full set of dentures could be worn in the meantime. To learn more, contact a dental implant provider.