I have never had dental insurance and as a result my teeth are a mess. I’ve finally gotten a job that provides insurance and leapt at the chance to get to a dentist. Unfortunately, the news was not good. I should have expected that but hoped that brushing my teeth like I was supposed to would be enough. I have gum disease and the dentist feels certain that I will lose at least four teeth, possibly more. While the dentist is suggesting I replace them with removable dentures, I am hoping it would be possible for me to get dental implants instead. What do you think?
Lacey
Dear Lacey,
Congratulations on the new job! As long as you are in good general health, you are often a candidate for dental implants. That being said, your gum disease is a complication. You are going to need to get that treated right away. Without that, you will not only continue to lose more teeth, but there will not be enough bone structure there in order to support the dental implants.
I would focus on saving as many teeth as possible. If there is a tooth that actually does come out before your gum disease is under control, you can get some bone grafting done to build the bone up and enable you to get the dental implants safely. Once your oral health is back on track, then getting the implants should not be a problem at all, but I would expect there will be some bone loss as a result. Again, bone grafting will help that.
Choose Your Implant Dentist Carefully
Dental implants are an advanced procedure that requires a dentist who has invested in post doctoral training. For example, Dr. Potts completed a three-year externship at the Midwest Implant Institute, including courses in surgery, prosthetics, and bone grafting. It is best if the dentist is able to do the surgical as well as restorative parts of the procedure. This prevents any miscommunication between the dentist and the oral surgeon. However, if that is not possible, then make sure you see the implant dentist first. He or she should determine the placement of the implants, not the oral surgeon. That is imperative.
Best of luck to you! I’m glad you are getting the dental care you need with your new job.
This blog is brought to you by Libertyville Dentist Dr. David Potts.