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Many people with missing teeth choose dental implants as the gold standard to replace their smile. While most people are eligible for dental implants, there are some instances where you may need to be a better candidate. Our dentist can help you better understand if dental implants are right for you during your next visit to Osuna Dental Care.

Dental implants require a sufficient amount of healthy bone structure to support the implant post. You may not be a candidate for dental implant placement if you have lost a significant amount of bone due to gum disease or trauma. In cases like this, you may need bone grafting to improve your bone health and reshape your jawbone for dental implants to be a viable solution. In addition, patients with low bone density may also have an increased risk of implant failure. If this is the case, we may recommend alternative treatments to improve oral health instead of dental implant placement.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are an excellent tooth replacement option that closely mimics the look, feel, and function of your natural teeth. They are titanium posts surgically inserted into the gums and fused to the jawbone. An implant restoration is a custom-made dental crown or bridge affixed to the implant to restore your smile. Unlike dentures and partials that must be removed for cleaning, an implant is a permanent part of your smile that becomes a part of your jaw. Caring for your implants is easy! Brush twice a day for two minutes, floss once daily, and visit your dentist every six months for a cleaning and professional examination. With proper oral care, your implants could last for decades to come. 

When Are Dental Implants Not an Option?

Bone Loss

If you want successful dental implants, they must have adequate bone to integrate with, or they will fail. Unfortunately, bone loss can occur when your natural teeth are lost. Tooth loss, gum disease, cavities, and tooth or gum injuries cause bone loss. A developmental abnormality can cause bone loss in rare circumstances. Your dentist may take x-rays or administer a bone density test to assess if you have suffered from bone loss.

Chronic Illnesses and Diseases

If you have diabetes or leukemia, you may not be a good candidate for dental implants; alternatively, if you have received radiation to the head or neck. These disorders can impede the healing process following dental implant surgery. Your dentist can analyze each unique patient and make a case-by-case decision.

Talk with our dentist about if you are a candidate for dental implants. It’s never too late to improve your smile! Visit Osuna Dental Care at 5900 Cubero Dr NE suite B, Albuquerque, NM 87109, or call (505) 884-1989 for the best dental care.