If you are missing one or more teeth and looking to restore your smile, you may need dental implants. They give your smile a seamless, natural look and uphold the integrity of your teeth, jaw, and gums. That way, excess pressure from biting or chewing does not strain your surrounding teeth and jaw.

But as much as dental implants are the standard for replacing missing teeth, not everyone is a candidate for the procedure. 

Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Most patients are good candidates for dental implants. A dental exam by your dentist will determine whether they are right for you. That said, here are some general requirements dentists consider for dental implants.

General Health

Dental implants thrive when your medical health is good. Certain medical conditions like diabetes can delay your healing process, and others like stroke or heart disease can postpone the treatment. Be sure to discuss your medical history with your dentist, including any medicines you take. Dental implants may work if your medical health issues are under control.

Dental Health

Do you have healthy teeth and gums? Healthy teeth and gums are important because your dentist must work with them during treatment. Dental health problems such as gum disease may make dental implants less effective. If you have issues with your dental health, your dentist may treat them before going ahead with the dental implant process.

Healthy Jawbone Thickness and Tissue

The jawbone provides support for a dental implant. The procedure can only be successful if you have enough bone thickness and healthy jaw tissue. If your jaw is weak from fracture or disease, your dentist may recommend treatments such as bone grafting to improve your jawbone health. Your jaw tissue should also be healthy enough to undergo surgery and work well after the procedure.

Oral Hygiene

Poor oral hygiene means your teeth and gums are prone to decay and other dental health problems. These could slow down the healing process or make dental implants unstable.

To qualify for the procedure, you must have a dental hygiene that measures up to your dentist's oral hygiene standards. Before the surgery, you should demonstrate that you have good oral hygiene standards and can maintain them post-surgery.

Tobacco Use

Tobacco is harsh on teeth and gums. It makes you more prone to tooth decay and developing gum ulcers. If you are a regular user, your dental health before surgery may disqualify you from the procedure. 

Who Is Not a Candidate for Dental Implants?

People with untreated medical conditions risk having unfavorable outcomes and may not qualify for dental implants. Uncontrolled cancer, diabetes, blood clotting illnesses, drug and alcohol abuse, and problems with the immune system can alter the outcome.

Similarly, taking steroid medications may affect your candidacy. And habits such as severe grinding and clenching of teeth can put too much pressure on the implants and cause lasting damage. 

If dental implants are not an option for you, dental bridges may be an ideal tooth replacement option. Your dentist will be able to prescribe the most suitable treatment option to replace your missing teeth and improve your smile.

For more on dental implants, call Le Smile Aesthetic & Comprehensive Dentistry at (703) 534-6226 to reach our office in Falls Church, Virginia.