Dental implants are a fantastic option for replacing missing teeth, providing a long-lasting, solution that can restore both your smile and your confidence. However, their success doesn’t just depend on the procedure itself; it also hinges on how healthy your mouth is before getting them. Improving your oral health is a crucial first step. Let us help you get your mouth in great shape for dental implants. 

To evaluate your readiness for implants, call Valley Dental & Orthodontics at 925-235-1565 to schedule a consultation. 

In the meantime, we’ll walk you through the key factors for implant success and share some tips on how to prepare your mouth for this life-changing procedure. 

The Criteria for Successful Dental Implants

For dental implants to integrate properly with your jawbone and remain stable for years to come, several factors must be in place. Let’s take a look at the main criteria for implant success:

  • Sufficient Bone Density – One of the most important factors for dental implant success is having enough healthy bone to support the implant. When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area will shrink over time – a process called resorption. If there’s not enough bone left, the implant won’t have a secure foundation. The more bone you have to start with, the better your chances of a smooth implant process. 
  • Healthy Gums – Your gums need to be free of infection and disease to ensure the success of dental implants. Gum disease can affect the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure. Healthy gums help create a strong seal around the implant, preventing bacteria from reaching the bone and causing complications.
  • Overall Good Health – Dental implants are a surgical procedure, so being in good overall health is essential. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, smoking, or certain autoimmune diseases can increase the risk of complications during healing. If you have a medical condition, it’s important to consult with your dentist to determine whether dental implants are a viable option for you.
  • Good Oral Hygiene Habits – Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is vital for implant success. This includes daily brushing and flossing to prevent plaque buildup, which can lead to infection around the implant. If you’re prone to cavities or gum disease, your dentist may recommend extra precautions to ensure the long-term health of your implants.

5 Tips to Improve Your Oral Health Before Getting Dental Implants

Even if you meet the basic criteria for dental implants, taking steps to improve your oral health can increase your chances of success and promote faster healing. Here are some important tips to get your mouth in great shape.

Treat Gum Disease or Tooth Decay

Before moving forward with dental implants, it’s important to address any existing gum disease or tooth decay. If you have gum issues, your dentist will treat the condition and ensure your gums are healthy before proceeding with implants. This could involve professional cleanings, scaling and root planing, or other treatments.

Quit Smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor for dental implant failure. It slows down the healing process, impairs blood flow to the gums, and increases the risk of infection. If you’re a smoker, you should consider quitting before and after your implant surgery to optimize the success of your implants.

Strengthen Your Jawbone

If you have insufficient bone density in your jaw, your dentist may suggest bone grafting procedures to rebuild the bone before placing implants. These procedures can take several months to heal, but they can help provide a solid foundation for your implants. In some cases, techniques like sinus lifts or ridge expansion may also be necessary.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

In the months leading up to your implant procedure, make sure you’re practicing excellent oral hygiene. This means brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. Keeping your mouth free from plaque and bacteria will improve your gum health and help your body recover more quickly after implant surgery.

Maintain Regular Dental Checkups

Regular visits to your dentist are essential for keeping your oral health in check. During these visits, your dentist will monitor the health of your gums and teeth, perform professional cleanings, and identify any potential issues before they become serious problems. Having a clear picture of your oral health can help you make informed decisions about getting dental implants.

Final Thoughts on Implant Readiness

By addressing issues like gum disease, improving bone density, quitting smoking, and maintaining excellent oral hygiene, you can dramatically improve your chances of having a successful dental implant experience.

Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible outcome for your dental health. If you’re considering dental implants, schedule a consultation with us today. We’ll evaluate your oral health and create a personalized plan to help you get your mouth in great shape for a successful procedure.

Call Valley Dental & Orthodontics at 925-235-1565 for an appointment in Dublin, CA. We’ll get your mouth in great shape for dental implants!