Learning to Take Better Care of Your Family's Teeth

Two Problems That Should Be Addressed Before Seeking Dental Implants

When you find out about dental implants, you might want to talk to your dentist about them. They can be effective substitutes for the missing teeth you no longer have, and filling those spaces can help you avoid some problems with your gums and remaining teeth. However, your dentist might recommend addressing and repairing the following two issues before booking you an implantation appointment.

Weak Bone Density

In order to be as well-implanted as your natural teeth, the root of a dental implant is made of titanium and is drilled directly into your jaw. Your jaw has to be strong enough to withstand this process, which is why your dentist will do bone density tests. If your tests reveal that your jaw is not dense enough for the implantation procedure, you'll have to take steps to make your jaw and other bones stronger before your dentist will approve implants.

How might you do this? It turns out that a diet full of the right vitamins and minerals can help you. In particular, calcium and some vitamin D are reputed to be excellent for bone strength. You can get these nutrients from dairy foods such as cheese, yogurt and milk. Broccoli is also a good source of the mineral calcium. If you want to ensure that you're getting enough of these two nutrients, you may want to start taking supplements. However, if you do start supplementing, make certain that you inform both your dentist and your primary doctor. Your dentist will continue to monitor your bone strength until tests show that your jaw has the density needed for an implant.

Infected Teeth and Gums

You may not realize this, but if you currently have outstanding dental issues like gum disease or cavities, implants might have to wait. The reason or this is that when an implant is put in, the bacteria in your mouth from infected teeth and gums can travel to that area. If that occurs, it's possible that the bacteria will infect the jaw, a condition known as peri-implantitis. That could have very serious consequences, including losing some of the jawbone.

For that reason, your dentist may prefer to ensure your mouth is as germ-free as possible. They may fill cavities and do deep cleaning procedures on your gums to help prepare your mouth for implants at a later time.

If you're sincerely hoping for implants, be aware that you may not be able to have them done right away. Talk more with your cosmetic dentist so you two can work on a plan of action.

For more information, contact a group like Dr. Jerry F. Maymi & Associates.