Dental implants are one of the popular procedures used to restore lost teeth in the jaw. It is a fixed prosthesis with a ‘root’ or fixture that will bond to the surrounding bone, and there are several systems available on the market. However, they are not interchangeable. Even within the same system, there are several forms and sizes to choose from. Some fixtures have specifically treated surfaces to aid in bone integration. The accessible bone in the patient’s jaw will eventually decide the best dental implant.
Although dental implants outperform other forms of dental prosthesis in many respects, several factors influence their long-term success. These considerations, which vary from relative to strict contraindication, decide whether or not a dental implant is a good decision.
1. A Background of Any Medical Illness
For case selection, good health is the gold criterion. Uncontrolled medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease are prohibited unless they are appropriately managed. This is because dental implantation necessitates a surgical procedure, and these disorders may have an adverse effect on the surgical operation and subsequent wound healing.
2. Age
Age is not a contraindication to the procedure in and of itself, but the patient must be excluded from other disorders, particularly those connected to age. On the other hand, too young patients are not recommended for dental implants until their growth is complete.
3. Residual Alveolar Bone Ridge
The residual bone’s size and the gums’ thickness dictate which dental implant is used. The implant requires enough bone breadth and height. However, bone dimensions can be adjusted before implant implantation by undergoing further surgery such as sinus lift, bone augmentation, and distraction osteogenesis. This surgery allows for the insertion of a dental implant.
4. Cost
Dental implant therapy is more expensive than dentures or basic bridge construction. Another form of implant is the tiny dental implant, which is significantly smaller in size and may cost less. This type of implant, however, has a restricted range of indications, and its usage is contentious in several ways.
5. Oral Hygiene
Oral hygiene is critical in deciding the success of the prosthesis. If dental hygiene is inadequate, the implant is unlikely to endure because “peri-implantitis” might arise, causing gum inflammation and bone loss around the implant. Because dental implants require a significant investment, oral hygiene must be in good condition before treatment. Before deciding on a treatment, the ability to maintain proper dental hygiene must also be considered. Patients with low manual dexterity, such as the mentally challenged or physically handicapped, are not suitable candidates unless the next of kin can play an effective role.
6. Habits
Certain lifestyle habits may also affect the process of dental implants. For example, a heavy smoker may not be a good candidate as they may be contraindicated if combined with other risk factors he may have.
