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Dental implants are the perfect solution if you meet the criteria. With metal posts embedded directly into your jawbone, implants are designed to be permanent solutions for tooth loss. Whether you have lost one tooth or all of them, implants can restore your smile and keep your mouth healthy. Dr. Brianna Rafetto of Bright Dental – Brianna Rafetto, D.M.D., P.A. in Middletown, Delaware, can determine if they are a viable solution for you in the following ways:
1. Strong bones and gum tissues – When teeth are lost, the bone has nothing to anchor itself to. If your bone is strong, your dentist can embed the metal post of the implant into your jaw. Then, new bone tissue will begin to grow around the post, firmly securing it in place. It’s also important to have healthy gum tissues. Strong gum tissues will support the metal posts throughout the healing process and provide a solid foundation for your dental implants.
2. Good oral health – For dental implants to be successful, your oral health must be top-notch. Gum tissues that are in poor health are susceptible to infection. This can mean tooth loss, inflammation, and the inability to heal sufficiently. Healthy gum tissues are needed to provide a solid foundation of support for your dental implants. Strong gum tissues will heal much faster and keep the implants secure.
3. Need a long-term solution—Traditional dentures will last for years, but won’t prevent bone deterioration or the loss of healthy gum tissues. When dental implants are placed, new bone tissue develops around the posts, making them a permanent part of the bone. Implants also strengthen the gum tissues. As the bone gets stronger, it also promotes healthy gum tissues and prevents them from pulling away from the surface of the implants.
4. Good general health – To support dental implants, a patient needs to be in good physical health. Chronic illnesses like diabetes and osteoporosis can impact how a person’s body will respond to dental implants. While the conditions may not directly affect the implants themselves, they may cause complications in the future that will compromise the implants. Your dentist will go over your medical history carefully to ensure there are no roadblocks that may appear in the future.
5. Minimal risk of infection—Being at risk for infections can slow the healing process. In some situations, it may prevent healing altogether. Conditions like advanced gum disease or diabetes may substantially increase your risk of infection. Your dentist may determine that implants may not be a good fit for you if infections continue to recur in spite of regular dental care.
Dental implants can help you maintain good oral health for several years. Dr. Brianna Rafetto of Bright Dental – Brianna Rafetto, D.M.D., P.A. in Middletown, DE, can evaluate your oral health and the gum and bone tissues in your mouth. If the tissues are strong and there are no signs of infection, you may be considered a good candidate for dental implants. New patients who have questions about dental implants can call (302) 391-6222. Existing patients can call (302) 376-7882 to get the answers they need.
Dr. Brianna Rafetto is a dedicated and compassionate dentist with a rich background in dentistry. Born in Hockessin, DE, and raised in Kennett Square, PA, she has deep roots in the Delaware dental community. Dr. Rafetto earned her Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry and completed a General Practice Dental Residency at Christiana Care’s Wilmington Hospital. Her expertise spans complex oral surgery, advanced prosthodontics, and cosmetic restorative treatments. As a trusted member of the Bright Dental family, Dr. Rafetto is committed to providing honest, gentle, and high-quality care to all her patients.
