Dental implant technology involves the surgical placement of an artificial tooth root, usually made from titanium or other biocompatible material, which can bond with your jawbone over time, enhancing the stability of your replacement tooth so it functions like your natural teeth.

There are several different implant systems used, and when competently applied, deliver a highly reliable form of treatment with over 98% chance of success. But there are certain requirements for you to be considered a good candidate for dental implants, so you can achieve the desired goal with no adverse effects.

To be considered a suitable candidate for dental implants:

1. You must be an adult

Dental implants are surgically placed in your jawbone. The titanium post, which is in the form of a screw thread, is made from biocompatible material that bonds with the bone tissue providing a strong foundation for long-term support of the tooth replacement. Since the permanent teeth and jawbone for minors are still growing, developing, and shifting, this process might interfere with the position and stability of the implant, increasing the risk of the replacement tooth failure.

2. You must be in good dental health

The dentist will perform a thorough examination of your mouth and remaining teeth to identify the nature and extent of any existing dental/oral problems that led to tooth loss, and treat them before proceeding with your implant treatment. If you’re aware of loose teeth, bad breath, or excessive gum bleeding during professional teeth cleaning, then you may have periodontal disease, which contributes to bone loss. This can complicate your implant treatment if not addressed as soon as possible.

3. You must be in good general health

Your dentist will want to know about your medical history. You must either have good bone quality and volume to support the implant, or be a good candidate for bone augmentation procedure to build up the bone so it can support the implant. Chronic illnesses such as leukemia or diabetes may affect healing after surgery, which may make implants unsuitable.

4. You must be willing to drop bad habits

Habits such as smoking and heavy drinking can increase the risk of complications associated with initial healing of the implant site, and thereafter may be detrimental to the long-term health of gum and bone tissue surrounding each implant. In fact, many oral surgeons decline to perform dental implants if the patient refuses to reduce or give up smoking or excess alcohol consumption.

Personalized Consultation

That said, each case is unique, and if you have any dental issues, medical problems, or bad lifestyle habits, then you should speak to your doctor or dentist before starting the treatment to find ways to reduce the risk and increase your chances for a successful dental implant placement.