Oral Issues That Can Stand in the Way of Dental Implants

If you or someone you know has suffered tooth loss, then you’re aware of all of the frustrating problems that come with it. From difficulty speaking to feeling uncomfortable with your smile, or even having to miss out on eating your favorite foods – tooth loss can impact your life in a huge way. Thankfully dental implants are a great option to give you back the oral functionality and confident smile you once had, but it’s important that you’re a good candidate for the treatment. Keep reading to learn what oral issues might hinder you from getting dental implants and how to avoid them.

What Can Get in the Way of Dental Implant Treatment?

Dental implants have become the most natural option when it comes to tooth replacement. They look and feel like real teeth, and it’s hard to find other options to rival them. If you’re considering them, here are a few things to know about potential oral issues that can prevent you from being a good dental implant candidate:

Impaired Overall Health

Certain health issues such as diabetes and heart disease have directly been connected with gum disease. In order for dental implants to be successful, the gums need to be healthy. If you have either of these health conditions, it’s important to let your dentist know when you have your dental implants consultation so that they can fully assess your unique situation and let you know if they feel that dental implants will be successful for you.

Bad Oral Health

Dental implants are meant to restore the aesthetics and functionality of your smile, but they also rely on the condition of your remaining teeth, gums, and jawbone to be successful. If you have gum disease, excessive tooth decay, or a jawbone that has significantly deteriorated, your dentist might recommend other options for you outside of dental implants.

Unwillingness to Take Risks

While most dental implant treatments for good candidates are successful, it’s important to have an open mind and understand that there are certain risks involved. The jawbone could refuse to fuse with the implant or the gums could experience problems. While these issues are rare, they are not non-existent. Before you commit to dental implants, make sure you go in with the understanding that there is a small possibility that you may need to explore other options with your dentist.

Lack of Good Oral Hygiene Habits

In order for your teeth and gums to stay healthy in the long run, you need to brush and floss on a daily basis. This is the same for dental implants. As previously mentioned, your implants will only be as successful as your overall oral health, so it’s important to prioritize it, even if you’ve suffered tooth loss.

If you’re ready for a smile transformation, there are options available to you. Talk to your dentist about whether or not dental implants are a good choice for your unique needs.

About the Practice

Dr. Karen Ho and Dr. Theresa Ta lead the team of experts at their practice in Campbell. For years, they have been restoring patients’ smiles, thanks to dental implants. It is their passion to ensure that everyone they care for feels completely at home and comfortable at their practice. They bring years of training and education into the office each day, and they can’t wait to meet you. You can request a consultation online or call (408) 558-9444.