Candidates for Dental Implants

Individuals who are missing teeth are often self-conscious when they smile, eat and speak. In some cases, the emotional impact of tooth loss can be more severe than the physical issues. However, dental implants, which are artificial teeth that are permanently joined to the jaw, allow individuals to replace their missing teeth, so their smiles look full and natural. In general, any adult who has experienced the loss of more than one tooth is a candidate for dental implants. However, there are some requirements that individuals must meet to ensure that they are good candidates for implants.

Denture Wearers

• For individuals who wear dentures, dental implants may be a much more comfortable option. Dentures often slip inside the mouth and make eating certain types of food difficult. They may also make clicking sounds while individuals speak or eat. Dentures also have the stigma of being worn by elderly people, which may be embarrassing for younger individuals who must wear them. Dental implants provide individuals with the ability to eat and speak without worrying about embarrassing slippage or noises. They are more comfortable than dentures because they feel like natural teeth, and allow individuals to eat a full and varied diet without issue. Individuals with removable bridges may also be candidates for dental implants.

Individuals with Gum Disease

• While individuals must have healthy gum tissue when dental implants are placed, those who have lost their teeth as a result of periodontal disease are still viable candidates for dental implants. In addition, individuals who have lost teeth as a result of decay may also undergo successful dental implant treatment. Oral surgeons work in coordination with periodontists who specialize in gum health to ensure that patients are free of gum disease at the time of implantation.

Patients With Chronic Medical Conditions

• Dental implant candidates must be in good general health so that healing will not be affected post-implantation, but those who suffer from chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, may still be candidates for implants. In most cases, as long as patients are able to receive routine dental care and procedures, they will be able to undergo implant treatment. However, special precautions may need to be taken to ensure that the chronic condition is under control. Oral surgeons may work in collaboration with the patient's physician to address any concerns prior to placing implants.

Individuals Who Have Suffered Bone Loss

• Dental implants require that individuals have adequate bone in which the implants may be placed. Patients who have lost teeth due to bone loss may still be candidates for implants, however. In some cases, the bone loss is moderate enough that no further treatment is necessary. If individuals lack sufficient bone to support the implants, their oral surgeon can perform a bone graft, which involves placing bone from elsewhere in the body or a synthetic or natural substitute in the jaw, so the implants may be secured without issue.