If you’re missing one or more teeth, dental implants may be at the top of your list for a long-lasting, natural-looking replacement. After all, they offer all kinds of life-changing benefits that other options cannot match. But what if you’re not sure you actually qualify? The good news is that very few issues completely rule out dental implants as an option! In most cases, any obstacles standing in your way can be resolved so you can move forward with rebuilding your smile. Here are four of the most common candidacy concerns and how they can be helped.
Insufficient Jawbone Density
One of the most common reasons patients aren’t immediately able to get dental implants is a lack of sufficient jawbone density. Since implants rely on fusing with the jawbone for stability, a sufficient amount of bone volume is required to support them and enable them to function as replacement tooth roots.
Fortunately, this doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker! Procedures like bone grafting or sinus lifts can rebuild the jawbone over time, creating a strong foundation for future implant placement.
Gum Disease
Untreated gum disease is another factor that can delay dental implant treatment, and it can be incredibly problematic before and after implant placement. Healthy gums are essential for supporting the implant and preventing complications like infection or implant failure down the road.
If you’re diagnosed with gum disease, periodontal therapy can be used to restore your gum health before moving forward with implants. This often includes procedures like deep cleanings and antibiotic therapy.
Certain Chronic Health Conditions
Certain health conditions, like uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders, can affect the body’s ability to heal, and in turn increase the risk of implant complications. Dental implants thrive in a healthy oral environment, and any condition that threatens that can threaten your replacement teeth.
This doesn’t necessarily mean implants are off the table, though it does mean working closely with your primary physician to get any underlying conditions under control first. Once your health is stable, you may very well become a good candidate for implants.
Smoking and Tobacco Usage
Smoking can significantly slow healing and interfere with osseointegration, the process by which the implant fuses with the jawbone. Cigarettes and tobacco products also greatly increase the risk of gum disease, which poses its own threat to dental implants.
While quitting isn’t always easy, reducing or eliminating tobacco use at the very least in the weeks surrounding your procedure can greatly improve your chances of successful results.
The good news is that these issues can be helped! Most patients who initially believe they don’t qualify for dental implants can still achieve their goal with the right preliminary treatment. It all starts with speaking with your dentist about your goals and going from there.
About the Practice
Our team here at Worcester Dental Arts has served the needs of patients in Worcester for several years. We’re proud to offer dental implants as a permanent, natural-looking solution for missing teeth, and we take the time to walk every patient through their candidacy and treatment options. If you have any questions about the blog or you’re ready to schedule your dental implant consultation, just call or reach out online for more information or assistance. Telephone: (508) 793-2114.
