Which Factors Determine Who Can Get Dental Implants?
By Alan Levine | Published on November 18, 2011 | 0 Comments
Whether or not a patient can be considered a good candidate for dental implants will depend on a number of factors, the most important of which is whether the person has enough bone left in his or her mouth to place the implant successfully. This, explains Dr. Alan M. Levine, DDS, a dentist who places dental implants in Chevy Chase, MD, is one of the reasons why patients should not delay in seeking treatment for their lost teeth.
The longer a person waits after losing a tooth before seeking dental treatment, the less bone he will have in his mouth. If too much of the bone has dissolved by the time the person decides to get dental implants in Chevy Chase, MD, then the person may no longer be considered a good candidate for the procedure.
As a leading dentist who offers dental implants in Chevy Chase, MD, Dr. Levine says that he always wants to know who his patients are personally and what medical ailments they have suffered from in the past. Certain ongoing medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, can make it extremely difficult for a patient to have a successful outcome when getting dental implants in Chevy Chase, MD. Assuming the patient is not an uncontrolled diabetic, and assuming he is not on any type of cancer treatment regimen, dental implants will most likely be an option that can – and should – be explored.
If a patient is in good health and he has adequate bone in the specific area where the implant will be placed, then Dr. Levine says the person can be considered an excellent candidate. Age is much less of a factor, as Dr. Levine estimates that patients between the ages of 17 and 95 can all achieve fantastic results when getting dental implants.
Dr. Levine is careful to note that the minimum age cut-off, age 17, is important because children should not get dental implants until they have reached their maximum growth and development. Dentists never place implants in growing children and teenagers because the implants themselves will fuse to the bone. Once an implant fuses to the bone, it will not move. This becomes an issue if the patient decides later on that he wants braces. Once that implant has been placed, it will be all but impossible for an orthodontist to move the teeth with the use of braces and wires, which means that braces will not work.
Girls tend to finish their growth and development at an earlier age than boys, which is why dentists may agree to place dental implants in female patients beginning at a slightly younger age than their male counterparts.
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
Phone: 301-637-8285
*Disclaimer: The information on this website is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.