You're considering dental implant restoration. But, you're not sure if this type of procedure is for you. Understanding the benefits the implants can bring to your smile is the first step in making an informed decision. Keep in mind, this is a decision that you need to make with your dental professional. Even though there are general pros to choosing an implant, every person's healthy mouth needs are different. Before your dental consultation prep yourself with the knowledge that you need to ask the "right" questions. What types of questions can help you to make the best decision possible.

Length That the Implant Will Last

Implants are typically long-lasting restoration options. This is one of the major pluses to going with this choice. They can last for 10 years or more in some cases, according to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID). Talking to your dentist about your lifestyle and needs can help the professional to answer your questions about the length of time that your implant may last. This might include foods that you like to eat, how often you visit the dentist and your at-home care routine.

The Gum Tissue Needed

Small titanium posts anchor implants in the jawbone, replacing the root of the tooth. In most cases, healthy gum tissue is needed to make the process successful. If you have little to no loss of gum tissue, it's likely that you'll be a candidate for this type of fix. That said, you'll need to ask the dentist if your mouth is healthy enough. Your dentist will check your gums, making sure that there is enough healthy tissue to complete the procedure.

Jawbone Issues

Along with healthy gums, dental implant restoration requires an adequate amount of underlying bone. Without enough bone, it's tough to anchor the implant. Serious gum disease, long-term denture use, injuries, tooth defects and some dental procedures may leave patients with not enough jawbone, notes the AAID. If you don't have enough jawbone to hold an implant, your dental professional may be able to give you other options. Before nixing the notion of an implant, ask if bone grafts (building up the jaw with either real or synthetic bone), a sinus lift (adding extra bone below the sinus area) or ridge modification (grafting bone to a small space or ridge) are options for your situation.

Dental implants can provide you with a long-lasting fix to missing teeth problems. Unlike removable dentures, implants offer a more permanent way to complete your smile and keep your mouth healthy. For more information, contact companies like Tijeras Dental Service.