If you have one or several missing teeth, you may be a good candidate to have one or more dental implants. You should always consult with your dentist, who will be guided by the following indicators in deciding whether or not a dental implant is the appropriate treatment for you:
Good candidates
Good health
Healthy gums
Enough bone to anchor the dental implant in the jaw (see bone grafting)
Commitment to daily brush and floss the implanted teeth and surrounding gums
Commitment to make regular visits to the dentist
Problematic candidates
Young patients whose jawbones have not fully developed
Pregnant women
Heavy smokers – smoking retards healing and reduces the chance of implant success
Alcohol or substance abusers
Patients receiving high-dose irradiation of their head or neck
People with chronic diseases or systemic problems, including high blood pressure, diabetes, connective-tissue diseases, hemophilia and significant immune deficiencies.
Patients taking steroids or drugs that suppress the immune system
People who severely grind or clench their teeth
Remember that with dental implants, age is not a factor.
