There are various procedures that a cosmetic dentist can carry out to improve your smile and boost your self-esteem. Indeed, cosmetic dentistry is aimed at correcting oral problems that can affect the appearance of your teeth and overall smile. People who are struggling with missing or poorly positioned teeth, infected gums or weak jawbones can have their oral health restored via several corrective surgery procedures that are offered by a cosmetic dentist.

One of those procedures is dental implants. Dental implants involve the insertion of an implanted artificial tooth in the area where a missing tooth is located. Many people who have missing teeth tend to feel self conscious about their overall appearance, as well as their smile. And for those who work in media, entertainment or other similar industries, a missing tooth can be the reason why you didn't get your dream job.

Luckily, a cosmetic dentist can carry out a dental implant procedure to restore a full set of teeth in your mouth.

Typical candidates for dental implants

Before you consider dental implants, you need to know if the procedure is right for you. Dental implant surgery involves the placement of a titanium implant into your jawbone. The implant ends up fusing with the jawbone and remaining firmly in place.

As a result, it requires for your jawbone to be strong and for the area of the implant to be adequately prepared before surgery. Good candidates for dental implants include:

• People with missing teeth

If you have one or more missing teeth, dental implants can be a great cosmetic procedure to fill the gaps and restore a full smile. In addition to the physical appearance benefits, dental implants are also highly beneficial for your oral health. They can cover gaps in the mouth that would otherwise serve as a breeding ground for plaque and infections.

In addition, a missing tooth may only be missing the top layer, leaving the underlying surface to decay and infect the gums. Dental implants ensure that any missing teeth are completely extracted before the implant is placed.

• People with healthy jawbones

To successfully have dental implants, the cosmetic dentist will first ensure that your jawbone is healthy enough to accommodate the implant. A weakened jawbone may need to undergo bone grafting first so as to strengthen and reposition the jaw. This will ensure that the implant remains in place regardless of wear and tear that the mouth may undergo.

• People unwilling/unable to wear dentures

Those who may not be able or are unwilling to use dentures to replace missing teeth will find dental implants as a suitable alternative.