Are Dental Implants for Everyone?
When you first hear about dental implants, it’s easy to think they are the magic solution for everyone out there wanting a option. While they are revolutionary in their approach and greatly benefit many people, not all will qualify. For those patients, don’t worry. Our Plantation, FL, dental implant dentists can still help you explore dentures or a bridge.
Before we determine if you’re a good candidate for replacing teeth with dental implants, here’s what you should know.
Eligibility Factors for Dental Implants
The only age group that generally isn’t a prime target for tooth implants is young children and teens. The reason is simple: their jawbones are still developing. Dental implant surgery requires a fully matured jaw to ensure stability and long-term success. However, once growth is complete, typically by the late teens or early twenties, getting a dental implant starts to become a viable option for anyone who has missing teeth or has recently undergone tooth extraction.
You may also be a frontrunner if you meet most of the following criteria:
- You have one or more missing teeth.
- You want a stable, long-term form of tooth replacement.
- You’re in generally good health.
- You have healthy gums.
- You don’t have untreated gum disease.
- Your jawbone is strong enough to hold an implant (or you’re open to bone grafting if needed).
- You’re not a heavy smoker, or you’re willing to quit before and after surgery.
If you’ve been thinking about single-tooth dental implants or implant-supported dentures for your smile, it’s important to schedule a full evaluation. Our local implant dentists will use digital imaging and 3D scans to assess bone volume and gum health before making a final recommendation.
When Are Dental Implants Not Ideal?
Not everyone is immediately ready for dental implant placement. In some cases, additional treatments or health improvements are needed before moving forward.
You may need to delay or consider alternatives if:
- You have active gum disease.
- You have significant bone loss in the jaw and are not a candidate for bone grafting.
- You have a chronic illness that affects healing.
- You take medications that interfere with bone health.
- You’re currently undergoing cancer treatment.
That said, these issues don’t always mean tooth implants are off the table forever. Many patients with health concerns can still become eligible for dental implants with the right support and preparation. Our dentists can discuss with you what makes the most sense and can collaborate with primary care providers if needed.
Dental Implant Options
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to tooth replacement. Whether you’re missing a single tooth or need several teeth replaced, there are tailored options like:
- Single-tooth implants: Ideal for replacing one missing tooth without affecting the surrounding teeth.
- Implant-supported dentures: A stable solution for multiple missing teeth or full arch replacement.
The right choice depends on how many teeth you’re replacing, the condition of your jawbone, and your personal preferences.
First Step Toward Tooth Replacement
If you’re considering getting a tooth replaced with a dental implant, the best place to start is a consultation with our dentists. We’re experienced in implant dentistry, can evaluate your eligibility for the procedure, and would be happy to walk you through what to expect during and after oral surgery.
Tooth replacement doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right information and expert care, single-tooth replacement or can be more comfortable and predictable than you might think.
Schedule a Dental Implant Consultation
Our dental implant dentists in Plantation serving Greater Fort Lauderdale, FL, are ready when you are. Call Barr Dental Group today at (954) 327-7400 to request an appointment and get started with your smile makeover.