How to Know if Dental Implants Are Right for You  

When people lose some or all of their natural teeth, replacing them as soon as possible is typically one of their first concerns. You have several options for tooth replacement, depending on the location of the missing teeth, strength of any remaining teeth, and overall jaw health. Like many people in your position, you are probably wondering whether dental implants in Las Cruces, NM, are the best choice to restore your oral health.

What Are Dental Implants?

Unlike bridges and removable dentures that replace only the visible portion of your missing tooth, dental implants replace the root structure as well. If you and Dr. Sudimack decide that dental implants are your best tooth replacement option, the first thing he does is drill a small titanium screw into your jawbone to act as the root for your replacement tooth.

Next, Dr Sudimack attaches an abutment to the titanium post and places the new replacement tooth on top of it. After a few manual adjustments, the abutment should hold your new tooth in place with no further issues.

How to Know if Dental Implants Are Your Best Tooth Replacement Option

Unfortunately, not everyone who wants dental implants in Las Cruces, NM can get them. Below are two of the most important factors that make someone a good or poor choice for dental implant surgery.

Adequate Jawbone Density

When you consider that your jawbone supports your new dental implant, it makes sense that it needs to be strong enough to do so. Your dentist may not be able to proceed with installing a dental implant if you have a weak jawbone near the proposed implant site. However, he may be able to transfer a small portion of bone material from another area of your jaw to the implant site to ensure it can withstand the added pressure of the dental implant.

Smoking and Chewing Tobacco Increase Risk of Dental Implant Failure

The nicotine and other chemicals present in tobacco products can slow down the process of healing after you have a dental implant installed. If you smoke cigarettes or chew tobacco, you will at least need to commit to quitting before and after oral surgery to give your jaw a proper chance to heal.

Please contact us or call us at 1-575-522-7320 when you’re ready to learn more about this popular tooth replacement option.