If you're missing one or more teeth, you've likely heard of dental implants as a long-term solution. Dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function much like natural teeth. They offer exceptional durability and stability while also supporting overall oral health. But one of the most common questions our team at Advanced Dental Concepts hears is: Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
Let’s walk through the key factors that help determine if dental implants are right for you—and how we work together to make that decision.
Dental implants are a modern approach to restoring missing teeth. Instead of relying on removable dentures or using neighboring teeth for support like traditional bridges, implants are anchored directly into the jawbone. This allows them to mimic the root structure of a natural tooth, providing excellent stability and helping preserve the bone in your jaw.
Many patients are drawn to dental implants because they:
With these advantages, it’s no surprise implants are considered one of the most effective tooth replacement options available today. However, not everyone is immediately eligible for the procedure.
One of the first steps in determining whether you’re a candidate for dental implants is assessing your current oral health. Healthy gums and a strong jawbone provide the foundation for successful implant placement.
Gums that are affected by periodontal (gum) disease may not heal properly after implant surgery. If there are signs of active infection, treatment will be needed before proceeding with implants. Our dental team will work with you to restore gum health first, often through deep cleanings or other periodontal therapies.
Dental implants require a certain amount of bone to support them. If you’ve experienced bone loss—especially if the tooth has been missing for a while—it can compromise the strength of the implant. Fortunately, there are options such as bone grafting that may rebuild bone density and make implants possible down the line.
During your consultation, we use dental imaging and thorough examinations to evaluate the structure and health of your mouth. This helps us determine the ideal placement and whether any preparatory treatment is needed.
Beyond your oral health, your overall lifestyle and medical history also play an important role in the success of dental implants.
Smoking can significantly reduce the success rate of dental implants. It affects blood flow to the gums and impairs healing, which is crucial after implant placement. If you currently smoke, we’ll discuss options and recommendations that can help improve your outcome and long-term implant health.
Conditions such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders don’t automatically rule out dental implants, but they do require careful planning. Controlled diabetes, for example, typically doesn’t present a major issue, but uncontrolled blood sugar can interfere with healing. If you have a medical condition, we’ll review it together and coordinate care as needed with your healthcare provider.
The longevity of your dental implants depends heavily on daily habits. Just like natural teeth, implants need consistent brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups. Maintaining a clean, healthy mouth before and after surgery supports healing and reduces the risk of complications.
A common misconception is that age disqualifies someone from dental implants. In reality, there’s no upper age limit. What matters more is the condition of your oral structures and general health.
Many older adults enjoy successful dental implant procedures. In fact, implants can be a great solution for patients who have struggled with the fit and feel of dentures. If you’re in good health and have healthy bone and gums—or are willing to undergo preparatory treatment—you could be an excellent candidate.
The amount of time a tooth has been missing can influence jawbone health. After a tooth is lost, the bone in that area begins to shrink due to lack of stimulation. The longer you wait, the more bone may be lost. That’s why it’s important to act as soon as possible if you’re considering implants. Still, even if it’s been years, we can often explore treatments like bone grafting to restore eligibility.
If you’ve worn dentures for years, you may be surprised to learn that dental implants could still be an option. Some patients choose to replace their traditional dentures with implant-supported dentures for added stability and comfort. Others may qualify for individual implant restorations depending on bone health and anatomy.
Every implant journey starts with a personalized consultation. At Advanced Dental Concepts, our goal is to understand your specific needs, examine your oral health, and design a solution tailored to you.
You’ll meet with Dr. Sander I. White and our team to discuss your goals and review your dental and medical history. We’ll take any necessary imaging and perform a thorough exam to evaluate bone density, gum health, and spacing. Based on our findings, we’ll walk through your treatment options and answer any questions you have.
Don’t worry—many patients who aren’t initially eligible for implants become candidates after preparatory procedures. Bone grafting, sinus lifts, or gum treatments can often create a stable foundation for implants in the future.
If implants aren’t the best choice for your current situation, we’ll talk through alternatives. These might include:
We’re here to help you make the best choice for your oral health, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
If you’re missing teeth and want a solution that looks and feels natural, dental implants could be the right fit. At Advanced Dental Concepts, our experienced team is here to guide you through the decision-making process and provide personalized care every step of the way.
To find out if you’re a candidate for dental implants, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. White. Let’s work together to restore your smile and confidence—starting today.
