Dental implants are an effective restorative option if you have one or more missing permanent teeth. With implants, we can secure crowns, dental bridges, and dentures in place to restore the appearance and health of your smile. If you have dental problems, including infections and bone loss, and wonder if you’re still a candidate for treatment with dental implants in Fayetteville, AR, we’re here to help.
Dental Problems We Address Before Implant Surgery
Below, we will review common dental problems patients face and how we can ensure patients get the care they need. We can help you qualify for implant treatment if you have:
Bone Loss
Patients who have been missing one or more missing teeth for a long time have likely experienced bone loss in their jaw bone. When there is no longer a tooth and root to support the jaw bone, many patients can experience facial sagging. Patients will require sufficient jaw bone so the implant anchor stays in place. We will recommend bone grafting treatment and sinus augmentation for patients depending on where they are experiencing bone loss. These procedures add healthy bone to areas as needed and ensure patients’ candidacy for treatment.
Gum Disease
During implant treatment, the titanium implant posts are inserted in the jaw bone below the gums. This means that patients need sufficient, healthy jaw bone and healthy gum tissue before receiving implants. If patients have problems like gingivitis or gum inflammation, we will recommend flossing and professional cleanings. Patients with moderate gum disease will require deep cleanings. If patients have severe periodontitis or gum disease, they will often need oral surgery. Once patients fully heal and their gums are healthy, they can receive implants.
Tooth Decay
Patients with cavities and tooth decay will require treatment beforehand, especially if their infection caused their tooth loss. We will examine patients’ smiles to determine if they require a cleaning, root canal, or extraction. Once the infection is removed and patients are in good oral health, they can begin the implant process.
TMJ Disorders
Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) are bite disorders caused by an injury or damage in the joints that connect the skull and the jaw bone. Many patients with TMD experience teeth clenching and grinding, pain when eating hard foods, and headaches. Dental implants can actually help patients with TMD, as missing teeth contribute to an unbalanced bite. Missing one or more permanent teeth contributes to an unbalanced bite and a higher likelihood of developing TMJ disorders. We can recommend physical therapy and exercises to manage pain and discomfort from TMD. In many patients, restoring their balanced bite can stop their symptoms.
Are you interested in dental implants but require treatment to prepare for your new restoration? Contact Greenway Dental Care today at (479) 217-3178. You may also schedule a dental consultation with us online. We always thoroughly examine patient smiles and help patients who may think they aren’t candidates for restorations get the care they need.