Missing teeth can do more than just make you feel self-conscious when you laugh or speak. Over time, gaps in your smile can lead to bone loss in the jaw, shifting of surrounding teeth, and changes in your facial structure. If you are considering a permanent solution to restore your smile, dental implants are widely considered the gold standard in restorative dentistry.
At Just Smiles in Westerville, OH, we understand that deciding on a treatment plan is a big step. Under the expert care of Dr. Phil Chahine, one of central Ohio’s premier dentists, you can explore whether this life-changing procedure is right for you. Dr. Chahine’s dedication to excellence is well-recognized; his peers voted him Top Dentist in Columbus for nine consecutive years (2013–2021) in surveys published by Columbus Monthly magazine.
So, how do you know if you are ready to take the leap? Here is a checklist to help determine if you are a prime candidate for dental implants.
The Prime Candidate Checklist
A prime candidate for dental implants is someone with good oral health, sufficient jawbone density, healthy gums, and a commitment to maintaining excellent dental hygiene
While most healthy adults can successfully undergo the procedure, the ideal candidate typically meets specific criteria. Improving your smile with dental implants in Westerville, OH, starts with a consultation, but these factors are good indicators of success:
1. Healthy Gums
Your gums need to be free of periodontal disease. Implants are surgically placed into the jawbone and require healthy gum tissue to support them as they heal. If you have gum disease, it must be treated and resolved before implant surgery can begin.
2. Adequate Bone Density
This is often the biggest concern for patients. The titanium post of the implant acts as a tooth root, fusing with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. For this to work, there must be enough bone to anchor the post securely.
3. Good Oral Hygiene Habits
Dental implants are not susceptible to cavities, but the gum tissue around them can still become infected without proper care. A commitment to brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups at Just Smiles is essential for the longevity of your new smile.
4. Overall Health
Certain chronic conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or heart disease, can affect healing. Smoking is also a significant factor, as it slows down the recovery process and increases the risk of implant failure. Being honest about your medical history helps Dr. Chahine create the safest plan for you.
What If I Don’t Have Enough Bone?
If you have been told in the past that you lack the bone density for implants, don’t lose hope. Modern dentistry offers solutions that make implants accessible to more patients than ever before.
Patients who might not have enough existing bone density in their jaws still have options, including a bone graft. This procedure involves taking bone graft material—often from another source or a synthetic option—and placing it in the position where your new implant will be. Over a few months, this graft fuses with your existing bone, creating a solid, durable foundation ready to support an implant.
The Dental Implant Process
The journey to a restored smile is a process, not a single appointment. It generally follows these steps:
- Consultation: Comprehensive imaging and planning with Dr. Chahine.
- Placement: The titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone.
- Healing: A period of a few months allows the bone to bond with the post.
- Restoration: A custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the abutment, completing your smile.
Are you ready to see if you qualify? Contact Just Smiles today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Chahine and take the first step toward a complete, confident smile.
CONTACT JUST SMILES FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY
LOCATIONS (TAP BELOW TO OPEN YOUR OFFICE IN GOOGLE MAPS):
JUST SMILES FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY
656 N STATE ST
WESTERVILLE, OH 43082
614-392-7109JUST SMILES FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY
1921 HILLIARD ROME RD
HILLIARD, OH 43026
614-363-0030
