Missing teeth can do more than just make you feel self-conscious when you smile. They can affect how you chew, speak, and even the structural integrity of your jawbone. If you are considering a permanent solution for tooth loss, dental implants are often the gold standard. But is this treatment right for you?
At Smiles for Life Dental Care in Bridgewater, VA, Dr. Dan Whiting and Dr. Geovanny Balderas help patients restore their smiles every day. With Dr. Whiting’s advanced training in dental implants, our team provides expert guidance to determine if you are a prime candidate for this life-changing procedure.
The Ideal Candidate Checklist
A worthy dental implant candidate typically has good oral health, sufficient jawbone density, healthy gums, and a commitment to maintaining excellent dental hygiene and regular checkups
While many people can successfully receive implants, the best candidates usually share a few key characteristics. If you can check these boxes, you are likely on the right track.
1. Sufficient Bone Density
Implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. For the implant to be stable, there must be enough dense bone to support it. If you have experienced bone loss due to long-term missing teeth, don’t worry—Dr. Whiting can often use bone grafting techniques to build up the area before placement.
2. Healthy Gums
Gum disease (periodontal disease) can compromise the success of an implant. Your gums need to be healthy and free of infection to ensure the implant heals properly and remains secure.
3. Good General Health
Because placing implants involves a minor surgical procedure, your body needs to be able to heal efficiently. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders can slow healing, so it is crucial to discuss your full medical history with us.
4. Non-Smoker (or Willing to Quit)
Smoking significantly increases the risk of implant failure because it restricts blood flow to the gums and slows down the healing process. While smokers can still get implants, quitting—even temporarily during recovery—drastically improves success rates.
The Dental Implant Process at Smiles for Life
Understanding the process can help alleviate anxiety. At our Bridgewater office, we use the latest dental equipment to ensure your surgery is precise and comfortable.
- Consultation: We start with a comprehensive exam, including 3D imaging, to assess your bone structure and plan the placement.
- Placement: Dr. Whiting or Dr. Balderas will surgically place the implant post into the jawbone.
- Osseointegration: This is the healing phase where the bone fuses with the implant, usually taking a few months.
- Restoration: Once healed, we attach a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture to the implant, completing your smile.
Advanced Comfort and Options
We understand that the idea of oral surgery can be nerve-wracking. That is why our Bridgewater office offers sedation dentistry. Whether you need mild relaxation or deeper sedation, we ensure you remain calm and comfortable throughout your treatment.
Furthermore, we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Because our dentists have extensive experience, we offer multiple implant options, ranging from single-tooth replacements to implant-supported bridges and dentures.
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
If you are ready to explore your options, Dr. Whiting and Dr. Balderas are here to help. Contact Smiles for Life Dental Care in Bridgewater, VA, today to schedule your consultation. Let’s find out if you are a prime candidate for a lasting, confident smile.
Contact Smiles For Life Dental Care:
540-828-2312
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
115 Oakwood Dr.
Bridgewater, Virginia
22812