Dental implants are supposed to offer a fresh start to your smile, but if your mouth starts with an infection such as gum disease, the implants probably won't work. This inflammatory disease attacks not only gum tissue but also the jaw, which are essential for successful implant success. If you have gum disease, your dentist must treat the condition before placing dental implants. This process for controlling gum disease can take a few months, but once your mouth is healthy again, you can trust that your new teeth will have a stable base. While not a health issue in and of itself, smoking can significantly affect your eligibility for dental implants.
Tobacco products alter blood flow, reduce oxygen levels in the gums and increase the risk of gum disease, all of which can hinder the healing process and cause implant failure. Likewise, excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to poor dental implant results, as it can interfere with bone formation around the implanted screw. Dental implants can be a great solution for some people, but there are certain medical conditions, behaviors and dental problems that could prevent a person from receiving them. Ultimately, your dentist can help you overcome anything that prevents you from getting dental implants. While they help strengthen bones by inhibiting their natural degradation process, the use of bisphosphonates has been linked to a greater risk of developing osteonecrosis (bone death) in the jaw after oral surgery and, sometimes, with the placement of dental implants.
If you want a quick solution for missing teeth, this is one of the main reasons not to get dental implants. Dental implant systems consist of a dental implant body and a dental implant abutment, and may also include a screw for fixing the abutment. It is possible that people with certain health problems, poor oral hygiene, insufficient bone density or volume in the jaw, and those taking specific medications may not be suitable candidates for dental implants. Dental implants are not a “set and forgotten” procedure, unlike conventional tooth replacement methods. We'll discuss how specific health conditions can affect dental implant placement success rates and explore what habits may hinder the healing process or compromise long-term results.
If you have any of these questions or concerns about your application for the procedure, it is important that you consult with a qualified dental professional who can evaluate your individual situation and recommend appropriate treatment options. Patients who have undergone radiation therapy, especially for head or neck cancer, may have problems with dental implants. Dental implants have become a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth, offering a durable, natural-looking option for improving oral health and regaining confidence. That said, oral surgery for dental implants has been perfected for decades and is now safe, fast, and (almost always) comfortable.
Corticosteroids, which are often prescribed to treat inflammation and autoimmune diseases, can negatively affect bone healing around dental implants. In some cases, it may be necessary to stop or reduce these harmful habits for successful treatment with dental implants.
