Getting Approved for Dental Implants

Dental implants are a relatively new and effective way to replace teeth, but only some are considered ideal candidates. To help determine if you are, we require all our patients to undergo a consultation. This guide will review what we check for to approve a patient for candidacy.

What we look for during the dental implant consultation

Periodontal disease

Periodontal (gum) disease is a condition that causes inflamed gums, leading to recession and loss of attachment to the teeth. If left untreated, this inflammation can spread to other areas of the mouth, including the jawbone, and become irreversible.

During the initial consultation with our office, we will perform a thorough oral examination to identify any signs of gum disease that may be present. If necessary, we will recommend treatment options such as scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) and antibiotics so the patient can achieve optimal oral health before beginning the dental implant process.

Underlying health conditions

If a patient has untreated diabetes, it is important to bring this up with the dentist. Diabetes can affect the jawbone, making it more difficult for the implant and surrounding bone to bond together. Therefore, patients who do not take medication for their diabetes should consult their primary care physician on a long-term treatment plan before beginning the dental implant process.

Cancer treatment can also affect the jawbone, similar to untreated diabetes. Undergoing radiation therapy or chemotherapy can damage the soft tissue around the intended implant site and cause necrosis (tissue death) in other areas of the mouth, eventually spreading to the implant site. This makes it difficult for an implant and surrounding bone to properly bond after surgery unless there is adequate time to heal since the cancer treatment.

Jawbone density

The amount of bone in the jaw is a leading factor in determining if one is a good candidate for dental implants. If one’s overall jawbone density is low, this causes insufficient support for the implant(s), making them loose over time. Patients undergo image testing from a CT scan to determine the amount of bone available. If a patient does not have an adequate jawbone, this does not automatically decrease their chances of receiving dental implants. The dentist may recommend a bone graft to create a foundation for the implants to remain secure. However, this will vary based on the patient’s specific case.

Smoking

In order to receive dental implants, dentists prefer non-smokers or people who do not consume tobacco in general. Smoking can decrease jawbone density and slow or inhibit the body's ability to heal. Additionally, the acids in cigarette smoke can damage the gum tissue, making it more likely for the patient to experience peri-implantitis, which is an infectious disease that affects the soft tissue around the implant. This condition can lead to implant failure. As a result, the dentist may recommend the patient cease smoking or other tobacco products for at least six months before scheduling another consultation.