Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Those with Sufficient Bone Density
Dental implants require a strong jawbone for successful implant placement. If you’ve lost bone due to tooth loss, gum disease, or trauma, you may need a bone graft before implant surgery. Our dentist uses 3D imaging to assess your bone density.
Healthy Gums
Healthy gums are critical for dental implant success. Conditions like periodontitis (advanced gum disease) must be treated before implants can be placed. Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene are a must for those seeking dental implant treatment.
Good Overall Health
Chronic conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or cancer may affect healing after implant surgery. However, well-managed conditions typically don’t disqualify you. Dr. Michael Hoagburg will review your medical history to ensure implants are safe.
Non-Smokers or Willingness to Quit
Smoking impairs healing and increases the risk of implant failure. Candidates are often required to quit smoking before and after the procedure to maximize success.
Commitment to Oral Hygiene
Dental implants require diligent care, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits. Candidates must be committed to maintaining their oral health to ensure long-term success with this type of tooth replacement.
Missing Teeth or Failing Dental Work
If you have one or more missing teeth, loose dentures, or failing bridges, implants may be an ideal solution. They can replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or even support full-mouth restorations.
Who Might Not Be a Dental Implant Candidate?
While many people qualify for dental implants, certain factors may delay or prevent candidacy:
- Severe Bone Loss: Extensive bone loss may require complex grafting procedures.
- Uncontrolled Medical Conditions: Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or heart disease may pose risks.
- Pregnancy: Pregnant women are advised to wait until after delivery.
- Young Age: Children and teens with developing jaws are not candidates until growth is complete.
To get started on replacing your missing teeth, contact our dentist in Denvertoday by calling 303-333-5148. Let’s see if implant dentistry can change your life.
Supplemental Dental Procedures
Some candidates require additional procedures before they undergo dental implant surgery. These supplemental treatments address bone or gum deficiencies, creating the best conditions for implants.
These pre-dental implant procedures include:
- Bone Grafting:If you have lost a significant amount of jawbone from years of missing natural teeth, a bone graft may be necessary to build up the jawbone before the implant can be placed.
- Sinus Lift:If you’re missing upper back teeth, a sinus lift may be necessary to raise the sinus floor and make room for the implant.
- Ridge Augmentation:If the area where the implant is needed is too narrow or has a shallow ridge, ridge augmentation may be necessary to build up the area and provide a stable foundation for the implant.
- Soft Tissue Grafting: Soft tissue grafting adds gum tissue to areas with receding or thin gums. Patients with inadequate gum tissue may need this treatment to support dental implants or achieve aesthetic results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is not suitable for dental implants?
Individuals with systemic diseases such as diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and certain autoimmune disorders may be at an increased risk for implant complications and infections. Similarly, those suffering from osteoporosis or taking medications for bone deterioration may also have a higher likelihood of implant complications.
I have a history of smoking. Does this mean I can’t get dental implants?
Smoking can affect the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure, so individuals who smoke may not be good candidates for dental implants. Your dentist or oral surgeon will evaluate your overall oral health, including your smoking history, to determine if dental implants are a suitable option for you.
Your Journey to a Complete Smile Starts in Denver
You deserve to smile without hesitation, laugh without covering your mouth, and enjoy the foods you love with confidence. Whether you’re coming from Aurora, Lakewood, or Englewood, our Denver team is ready to help you reclaim the life-changing benefits of a complete, beautiful smile. Missing teeth don’t just affect your appearance—they impact your self-esteem, your nutrition, and your quality of life. But it doesn’t have to stay that way.
Dr. Michael Hoagburg and our compassionate team have helped countless patients just like you transform their lives with dental implants, and we’re here to guide you through every step of your journey with care, expertise, and understanding. Don’t let another special moment pass you by. Call Lowry Advanced Dentistry today at 303-333-5148 to schedule your personalized dental implant consultation. Your new smile—and the confidence that comes with it—is just one phone call away.
