If you have missing teeth, dental implants offer one of the most aesthetic and secure solutions available. However, while most patients will be able to qualify for treatment, not everyone is an ideal candidate. Certain health conditions, lifestyle choices, and oral health issues can create complications or even prevent success. Continue reading to learn the most common roadblocks to implant placement and how you can avoid them.
1. Insufficient Jawbone Density
Dental implants need a strong foundation to stay secure, and that foundation is your jawbone. If you’ve had missing teeth for a long time, your jawbone may have deteriorated due to lack of stimulation. Without enough bone, an implant won’t properly integrate.
If you have low jawbone density, but have your heart set on implants, a bone graft can help rebuild lost bone, making the procedure possible. Your dentist will evaluate your mouth through X-rays and 3D scans to decide if grafting is a solution.
2. Gum Disease or Oral Infections
Healthy gums are another important factor for successful implants. If you have gum disease (periodontitis), your gums and underlying bone may be too weak to support the titanium fixtures. Infections in your mouth can also lead to implant failure if left untreated.
Before getting a green light for implant placement, your dentist will need to help reduce or eliminate any gum issues. Scaling and root planing, antibiotics, or laser therapy may be needed before moving forward with your procedure.
3. Uncontrolled Medical Conditions
Unfortunately, certain medical issues can also affect healing and decrease the odds of success for your implants. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and osteoporosis can slow down your recovery and make it harder for implants to integrate with your jawbone.
One of the first steps in the dental implant process is reviewing your medical history to decide if implants are a safe possibility. If you have a medical condition, it’s best to work with your doctor to manage it before considering implants.
4. Smoking, Vaping, and Tobacco Use
Smoking and vaping are both big risk factors for implant failure. Tobacco products and the chemicals in vape juice reduce blood flow, complicate healing, and increase the risk of infection. Smokers have a much higher chance of implant complications compared to those who don’t partake.
Quitting smoking before and after implant surgery can greatly improve your chances of success. However, most dentists understand that it’s difficult to quit once you’ve become addicted. So, they can either offer resources to help you through the process or suggest alternative treatments.
Even if you have one of these risk factors, that doesn’t always mean dental implants are off the table. Your dentist can assess your situation and recommend solutions to improve your candidacy. With the right care, you may still be able to achieve a fully restored smile!
About the Author
Dr. Tavi Henry is a talented dental practitioner with a doctorate from the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. Since then, he has never stopped learning, undergoing advanced training in dental implants and other treatments through multiple professional organizations including the Pierre Fauchard Academy. Call (303) 984-1400 to schedule a dental implant consultation at Dedicated Dentistry or visit our website to learn more.