If you're missing some or all of your teeth, your dentist may recommend tooth implants. Whilst dentures are a possible solution for missing teeth, they're removable -- and they can be quite uncomfortable as well. Tooth implants are permanent. They work in exactly the same way that your natural teeth did -- and possibly even better. Whether you're considering complete mouth tooth implants or only replacements for a couple of teeth, tooth implants may be right for you if you can pass the test below.

Do You Have Healthy Gums?

Your dentist will evaluate your gums to make sure that they're healthy and stable. Healthy gums are pink and they don't bleed when you floss or brush your teeth. If your gums are red, you might have gum disease. Pale gums can indicate can indicate anaemia or other health problems. When your gums are healthy, they're firm to the touch and don't gap away from the teeth. Whilst poor gum health can prevent you from being a candidate for tooth implants, you can sometimes improve gum health enough for implants by treating gum disease and undergoing treatments for receding gums.

Do You Have Enough Bone Density?

Your jaw bone acts as primary support for tooth implants. Your dentist drills a small hole directly into the jaw, and this is where the base of the tooth implant is inserted. A strong jaw with normal bone density is needed to properly support the tooth implants -- otherwise they'll start to shift, and the replacement teeth will shift along with the base. Therefore, anyone who has lost bone density due to periodontal disease, osteoporosis, or other illnesses may not be a candidate for tooth implants. If you have poor bone density or had to have part of your jaw removed for any reason, other options like dentures may be better suited for you.

Are You Committed to Proper Care?

Whilst tooth implants are generally quite easy to care for, you do need to make a commitment to maintaining them properly. It's important that you have good oral hygiene habits already established when you get tooth implants. You'll need to continue with these good habits -- including twice daily brushing and flossing -- for the rest of your life. Your tooth implants aren't susceptible to tooth decay like your natural teeth are, but remember that your gums and jaw bone are both still vulnerable. You'll also need to see your dentist at least one or two times annually for check-ups. 

If you can answer the questions above with a firm "Yes!" you may just be a good candidate for dental implants. Contact your dentist to discuss your candidacy for a bright smile through dental implants today!