What Could Prevent You from Getting Dental Implants? 4 Issues to Be Aware Of

When you do a quick internet search for “dental implants near me,” you may find a lot of information about how they are the best form of tooth replacement. Indeed, they offer a range of benefits that are not available from other treatments. For example, they are incredibly strong and long-lasting. As wonderful as they are, though, they are not right for everyone. What issues might prevent you from getting dental implants? This blog post lists a few, and it explains how such issues might be addressed.

Gum Disease

Advanced gum disease is a dangerous infection that can cause severe damage to the jawbone and gums. It can contribute to dental implant failure, so your dentist will not recommend you for tooth replacement unless your gums are healthy. Fortunately, gum disease is highly treatable. Once your mouth is free of active infections, you may be eligible for implants. (If gum disease damaged your jawbone, you might need a bone graft before moving forward with tooth replacement.)

Bone Loss

Your jawbone must be strong enough and large enough to support dental implants. Unfortunately, things like injuries, bone disease, and even simply the passage of time after tooth removal can cause the bone to weaken and shrink.

If imaging technology reveals that your bone is not adequate, you may not be able to get dental implants right away. Rather, you may need a bone graft. After the grafted material integrates with your jaw (which can take a few months), you may be able to get implants. (In some cases, a bone graft is performed at the same time as dental implant placement.)

Poor Health

Some health conditions might increase your risk of dental implant failure. For example, diabetes can slow down your body’s healing processes and make you more vulnerable to infections. If you are diabetic, your condition should be well-managed before you move forward with dental implants.

Personal Concerns

Some patients are physically suited for dental implants, but they may have some concerns that prevent them from committing to the procedure. Some dislike the idea of a long treatment process, while others are hesitant because dental implants tend to cost more than traditional tooth replacement.

Talk to your dental team about such issues. They can assure you that the long treatment process is worth it. They may also have provisions to make implants easier to afford. For example, most practices offer financing.

Dental implants can help most people with missing teeth, but there is a chance that some issues will need to be addressed before you get them. Talk to your dentist about how it might be possible to overcome such problems so you can get on the road to a stronger, healthier smile!

Meet the Practice

Dr. Bianca Sanchez is a highly skilled dentist in San Antonio who offers start to finish dental implant services. If you are curious about whether you qualify for this treatment, our team warmly invites you to visit us for a consultation. To learn more or to request an appointment, contact our office at 210-690-2727.