Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Nearly 120 million Americans are missing at least one tooth, and dental implants have quickly become the gold standard for replacement. With a success rate of over 95%, implant dentistry offers a reliable, natural-looking way to restore function and confidence. But who is the right candidate for this treatment? Understanding who makes a good candidate can help you decide if this treatment is the right choice for you.

At Lee Dental Centers, we are proud to provide advanced implant dentistry to patients across San Antonio. We’re even hosting a special Implant Day on September 23, where patients can find out more about the procedure, meet with our team, and find out if dental implants are the right option for them.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small titanium rods that are placed in your jawbone to act as roots for artificial teeth. Once the implant fuses with the bone, a crown is placed on top of it, creating a natural-looking and fully functional replacement tooth. Dental implants also help stop bone loss that can occur when teeth are missing, because they provide stimulation to the jawbone, just like natural tooth roots. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants stay securely in place, making them a popular choice for people who want a permanent solution for missing teeth.

General Requirements for Dental Implants

Most healthy goods are candidates for dental implants, but it’s important to remember that not everyone is going to qualify right away. Certain factors can affect the success of implant dentistry, so your San Antonio dentist will thoroughly evaluate your oral and overall health before recommending treatment.

• Healthy gums and bone: You’ll need enough jawbone density to support the implant. If bone loss has already occurred, your dentist may recommend a bone graft before starting treatment.

• Good overall health: Dental implant surgery is a procedure, so patients should be healthy enough to heal properly. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or smoking may slow down the recovery process.

• Commitment to oral care: Dental implants can last a lifetime, but only with proper brushing, flossing, and regular checkups with your San Antonio dentist.

During your consultation, your dentist will review your medical history, take X-rays, and evaluate your mouth to determine if dental implants are the right option for you. Understanding these requirements helps patients make good decisions and sets the stage for a successful implant procedure that restores both function and confidence.

So, Who Are the Best Candidates?

The best candidates for implant dentistry are adults who have one or more missing teeth and are looking for a permanent solution that isn’t dentures. They want to restore their ability to chew and speak naturally, and they are looking for a treatment that looks, feels, and functions like real teeth. Even if you’ve had teeth missing for years, you may still qualify for dental implants. Due to technological improvements, many patients who were once told they couldn’t get implants can now move forward with the procedure and enjoy a fully restored smile.

When Dental Implants Might Not Be the Best Option

While implant dentistry is highly successful, it’s not the right solution for everyone. Children and young teens, whose jaws are still growing, are not good candidates because the implants may not align properly as their mouths develop. Some adults with certain medical conditions may also need to stabilize their health before moving forward. This can include uncontrolled diabetes, certain heart conditions, or medications that affect bone healing. In some cases, patients with severe bone loss or gum disease may need alternative treatments, such as bridges or partial dentures.

Every patient’s oral health, jaw structure, and medical history are unique, and what works for one person might not be the best option for another. A thorough evaluation ensures that you select the safest, most effective option for restoring your smile.

Are Dental Implants Right for You?

At Lee Dental Centers, we have years of experience in restoring smiles with implant dentistry. We use advanced technology and personalized treatment plans to give you the best result. Regardless of how many teeth you need to replace, our team can help you feel comfortable and confident throughout the process.

Dental implants are an excellent option for many people who want a long-term solution for missing teeth. With the right care, they can restore both your smile and your confidence. If you’ve been wondering whether implant dentistry is right for you, book an appointment or call 210.681.5555 today.