Can Anyone Get Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth, but not everyone is an immediate candidate. Several factors determine if you can get dental implants, and a consultation with an experienced implant dentist is essential for assessing your specific case. Below, Elgin dentist Dean Lodding, DDS discusses dental implant candidacy, including options for those who may have been told they are not good candidates in the past. 

The ideal candidates for dental implants are individuals in good general and oral health, with sufficient bone density to support the implant. If your jawbone is too thin or soft, you may require a bone graft to ensure a stable foundation for the implant. Healthy gums are also important since gum disease can impact the success of the implant.

Age is typically not a limitation, as long as a patient’s growth has completed, meaning dental implants are usually most suitable for adults. People with certain chronic conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, or those undergoing treatments like chemotherapy, may face challenges with healing, which could affect implant success. Smoking can also impede healing, but with lifestyle changes, implants may still be an option.

Even if you have been missing teeth or wearing traditional dentures for many years, advancements in dental technology mean there are still options available, such as bone grafts or sinus lifts, to prepare your mouth for implants. Techniques like All-on-4^® implant dentures can also allow patients to restore full arches of missing teeth using just a few dental implant posts. 

Ultimately, while not everyone may be an ideal candidate right away, most people can receive dental implants with proper planning and treatment adjustments. Consulting with a skilled dentist like Dr. Lodding Is the first step to determining if dental implants are right for you. Contact our Elgin dental practice today to schedule an appointment.