Finally, since your gums won't cling to artificial teeth as tightly as to normal teeth, some dentists recommend additional surgery to make your gum line look more natural. Although there are few absolute contraindications to implants they should be considered very carefully in persons taking certain drugs and having diseases that compromise healing. Corticosteroids or uncontrolled diabetes, moderate to severe anemia, collagen vascular diseases or other disorders that can interfere with healing lessen your chances of a good result. Smokers and heavy drinkers may not get good results, either. Implants are not recommended in those under 15-16 years of age because facial structures are not done growing.
Some dentists operate after taking only a weekend course.
Look for a team that has done at least 50 cases overall and 10 to 15 like yours. Ask to speak with some other patients. Ask any potential oral surgeon or dentist whether the hardware he or she uses has been accepted by the American Dental Association. To gain ADA acceptance, manufacturers must conduct two five-year clinical studies to show the hardware holds up in real use. Not all implant systems have ADA acceptance.