Dental implants are metal posts or frames that go into the jawbone beneath your gums, so replacement teeth can be fit on top. The implants ensure security, so dentures, bridges, or individual crowns feel more natural. If you have missing teeth, implants are a great option, but are you a good candidate? Here’s what can help determine your candidacy:

You Have Good Oral Health

To be a candidate for dental implants, you need healthy teeth and gums. Gum health is very important because the dental implants are going right in there.

You Have Good Jawbone Density

The strength of your jawbone also matters, since the dental implants need good support. You also need to be at the age where your jawbone has stopped growing.

You Don’t Smoke

Smokers aren’t automatically ineligible for dental implants, but it does help if you don’t smoke or are able to stop for the whole implant process, including the healing time.

You Don’t Have an Autoimmune Disorder

Autoimmune disorders can make it harder for your body to heal, which is a very important step of the dental implant process. Again, it doesn’t automatically rule you out, but it can make a difference.

You Haven’t Been Treated with Certain Medications

If you’ve had oral cancer and were treated with certain types of medications, you may not be able to get dental implants. Other medications that suppress the immune system (like steroids) can also pose a problem, so be sure to let us know what you’re taking or have taken in the past.

Come to Mission Hills Family Dental for an Evaluation

The only way to know for sure if you’re a good candidate for dental implants is to come see our doctors and the team at Mission Hills Family Dental for an evaluation. We’ll give your mouth and oral health a thorough check, get X-rays, check for any signs of lost jawbone density, and more. Getting a complete picture of your medical history will let us know if you’re a good candidate for dental implants. The majority of people are, but we won’t know until we see you, so let’s get the process started!