Dental Implant Surgery: Do You Qualify?

As much as we’d like everyone to benefit from the life-changing power of implants, not every person qualifies for this treatment. Getting dental implants requires oral surgery, and there are factors in your life that may make this surgery difficult or impractical. Dr. Duka will carefully evaluate the state of your gums and teeth, review your medical history, and assess your lifestyle habits to see if implants are a good fit for you. 

The following are some factors that could exclude you from implant treatment: 

• Poor Gum or Jawbone Health

Implant surgery entails cutting open your gum, drilling a hole in your jaw, and inserting small titanium implant screws into your jawbone to take the place of lost tooth roots. Once in your jaw, the implant screws will fuse with your bone tissue to become a permanent foundation for your new tooth. Implants must integrate successfully into your jaw before they can support replacement teeth. Poor gum and jawbone health can impede this process and lead to implant failure. If you have poor bone density, Dr. Duka may be able to perform a bone graft to strengthen your jawbone before scheduling implant treatment.  

• Age and Facial Development

Your age and jaw development can affect your eligibility for implants. Implants need a firm, stable foundation to do their job. Changes in the shape or size of your jaw after implant treatment can destabilize your implants. Many dentists prefer that their implant patients be 18 or older. However, Dr. Duka and our team will decide each case on its own merits and make exceptions if and when warranted. 

There is no age limit for seniors seeking dental implant procedures. We consider your overall health and dental health more important to your candidacy than your age.

• Chronic Health Issues/Medications

Chronic health conditions like heart disease and diabetes increase your risk of infection or complications from your treatment, making you a poor candidate for implants. Certain medications can interfere with the anesthesia used for implants. It’s important to let us know all the medicines you’re taking before your treatment. 

• Lifestyle Habits

Your tobacco and alcohol habits also play a role in qualifying for dental implants. Smoking and drinking alcohol can make it more difficult to heal from your surgery. Smokers also have a higher risk of infection and complications from implant treatment.