Who Can Get Dental Implants

Best Conditions for a Successful Dental Implant

If dental implants are said to have high rates of success (98% as reported), then shouldn’t a lot of people with missing teeth have implants? Generally speaking, yes. Almost everyone with missing teeth can be good candidates for dental implants, everyone who is in good general health and oral health can be candidates. However, the truth is, not everyone is enjoying this good state of health. 

For your dentist to consider if you are a good candidate for dental implants, here are the conditions that should be present.

• You must be healthy enough to undergo surgery, such as tooth extraction and gum surgery, and can handle the anesthetic or sedation process required.
• You should have healthy gums and not be suffering from serious gum disease such as periodontitis.
• You must have enough bone mass to hold the implant. Patients with serious gum disease may not have sufficient bone to anchor the implant.
• You must be committed to the practise of good oral hygiene and regular visits to your dentist so as to prolong the life of the implant(s).

There may be groups of patients that are not ideal for dental implants.

• If you are a heavy smoker; smokers have a reduced rate of healing after surgery.
• If you are suffering from unmanaged or uncontrolled chronic conditions, like diabetes or heart disease; these patients also heal poorly and implant stability may be at risk.
• If you have cancer of the mouth, jaw, or the head and neck, and/or have just had radiation treatment to these areas. These patients already have weakened gums and bones that may jeopardize the success of the implants.
• If you are taking certain medications, such as steroids or immunosuppressive drugs; patients on these medicines may have a lowered resistance to infections   .
• If you are a teeth grinder or you have a habit of clenching your teeth; it may create unnecessary pressure on the implants causing some long-term damage.

All the above conditions may affect the success outcome of dental implants. Nonetheless, it is up to your dentist and his team to make the proper assessment. You may still have dental implants after a thorough evaluation of your medical and oral history. It all depends upon individual basis.

^Source

Wondering if you’re a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Do you want to know if you are an ideal candidate for dental implants at West Campus Dental Center? Come see us for a consultation in Federal Way and we can assess thoroughly.