Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?

"Am I a candidate for dental implants?" This is a common question among patients who have lost teeth, and it is no surprise considering the popularity of this treatment. Although many patients can receive dental implants, certain factors may complicate eligibility for others. Here is a look at who can receive dental implants and how our dentist may treat jaw bone loss before implant placement.

Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question, "Am I a candidate for dental implants?" Eligibility depends on a variety of issues, including anatomical integrity, jaw bone density and the presence of systemic disease. In some cases, restorative treatment may be recommended to make dental implant placement possible. However, all patients must consult with our dentist to verify candidacy before starting treatment.

How Can Jaw Bone Loss Be Treated?

Reduced jaw bone density and size is one common cause of poor eligibility for dental implants, but bone grafting can often be performed to treat it. This procedure involves taking bone from one part of the body and adding it to the jaw before waiting months for the jaw bone to develop to the desired degree. Once complete, bone grafting helps ensure that implants will reliably fuse with the jaw bone.

The above information is a first step towards answering the question, "Am I a candidate for dental implants?" By scheduling a consultation with our dentist, patients can find out more about this procedure and determine if it is an option for them.