Not Everyone is an Ideal Candidate for Dental Implants

There are many reasons that people choose to get dental implants as opposed to other forms of cosmetic tooth replacements. If you’ve lost one complete tooth or several, your options are already fairly limited to removable bridges, dentures, or permanent dental implants. Many people choose dental implants as they are natural, blend seamlessly in with other teeth, and can been customized for the best fit and look possible. They are also long lasting, even up to a lifetime if taken care of properly. And although prices are high, recovery can be fairly quick and most people find the results well worth the cost and effort. Most people who have lost teeth will be suited for the procedure, but there are some that will not be ideal candidates or will need to make lifestyle changes in order to benefit from this form of cosmetic dentistry.

Smokers

Unfortunately for smokers, most surgical procedures including cosmetic dentistry are generally discouraged. The more you smoke, the greater your chance of having a poor reaction to either medications or the procedure itself. While some surgeons and dentists will still perform the procedure, you are putting yourself at a much greater risk to develop infection, and in the case of dental implants, immediate rejection by the bone or a later breakdown of the bond between the material and jaw. It’s best to quit smoking as soon as possible before the procedure, and preferably permanently. If you are still planning on going through with it regardless, be sure to speak with your dentist about your circumstances so precautions can be taken.

Lack of Bone

If you are seeking dental implants, there is a good chance you have had significant damage or decay in your mouth. In many instances, the underlying bone of the jaw has also suffered problems and there may not be enough to successfully insert the screws required. Weak bones are also a potential deterrent to healing properly. Dentists can sometimes use an additional procedure to help build up the bone.

Poor Health

Those with other health problems including diabetes and gum disease do not make ideal candidates for receiving dental implants. In addition to the earlier mentioned smoking, addictions to drugs, alcohol, or prescription medications also puts patients at a greater risk of rejection of the material. Proper oral hygiene is still required to keep the dental implants and mouth in a healthy condition. If the patient is unable to maintain hygiene or is at risk for performing behaviors that can harm the implant such as drug use, it is wise to wait until these issues are addressed first.

Youth

Anyone under the age of eighteen should not have dental implants, with the few rare exceptions where physical damage has destroyed a permanent tooth. Teeth and the jaw bone are continuing to grow, shift, and move into the teen years so other procedures may be necessary in order to achieve the best possible results. Temporary solutions can be used such as bridges in order to maintain a natural appearance until the child has reached a more suitable age.

Basically, if you want dental implants, you need to be a healthy person.