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Petoskey, MI
(231) 347-2188

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Dental Implant Procedure Candidacy in Petoskey, MI

Are You a Dental Implant Candidate? 

Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth. They offer a natural-looking and functional solution that can significantly improve your quality of life. However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for dental implants. Factors such as oral health, bone density, and overall health can influence your eligibility. 

Our implant dentist Dr. Brian Klym has years of education and experience when it comes to dental implant placement. Call (231) 347-2188 to learn more. 

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Determining Candidacy for Dental Implants

Our Petoskey, MI dentist will evaluate several factors to determine if dental implants are right for you:

  • Sufficient bone density: Implants require a certain amount of bone in your jaw for stability. X-rays or CT scans can help assess your bone density. If your bone density is low, you may need a bone graftpatient observing his smile in a hand mirror procedure before implant placement.
  • Healthy gums: Gum disease can compromise implant success. Your dentist will check for signs of gum infections or inflammation. If you have gum disease, it must be treated before implant placement.
  • Good overall health: Certain medical conditions or medications may affect your eligibility for dental implants. For example, people with uncontrolled diabetes or certain autoimmune diseases may be at a higher risk for complications.
  • Oral hygiene: Good brushing and flossing habits are essential for maintaining implant health. Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease and other complications.
  • Age: Younger patients may need to wait for their jawbones to fully develop. However, in some cases, dental implants can be placed in adolescents with developing jawbones.
  • Financial considerations: Dental implants can be costly, and insurance coverage varies. It’s important to discuss the financial aspects of the procedure with your dentist and explore financing options if needed.
  • Medications: Certain medications, especially bisphosphonates used for osteoporosis, may increase the risk of complications. Your dentist will review your medication history to determine if any medications could affect your eligibility.
  • Realistic expectations: Understand the benefits and limitations of dental implants. They can provide a natural-looking and functional solution, but they may not be suitable for everyone.
  • Commitment to aftercare: Implants require proper care, including regular check-ups, good oral hygiene, and avoiding certain habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
  • Smoking and alcohol use: These habits can negatively impact implant success. Smoking can weaken the bone and increase the risk of infection, while excessive alcohol consumption can damage the tissues around the implant.

Supplemental Dental Implant Procedures

In some cases, additional procedures may be necessary before implant placement:

  • Bone grafting: For those with insufficient bone density.
  • Sinus lift: For missing upper back teeth.
  • Ridge augmentation: For narrow or shallow ridges.

Know Your Other Tooth Replacement Options

If you’re not a candidate for dental implants, other options include:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get dental implants if I have gum disease?
I have a history of smoking, does this mean I cannot get dental implants?
Who is not suitable for dental implants?
Can I get dental implants if I have gum disease?

No, you cannot typically get dental implants if you have active gum disease. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection that can damage the gums and bone that support your teeth. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other serious oral health problems.

I have a history of smoking, does this mean I cannot get dental implants?

Smoking is a significant risk factor for dental implant failure. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes can weaken the bone and impair blood flow to the gums, making it more difficult for the implant to integrate successfully. Additionally, smoking can increase the risk of infection and other complications.

Who is not suitable for dental implants?

Individuals with certain medical conditions may not be ideal candidates for dental implants. These conditions include:

  • Uncontrolled diabetes: High blood sugar levels can impair healing and increase the risk of infection.
  • Osteoporosis: Weakened bones can make it difficult for implants to integrate and may increase the risk of failure.
  • Certain autoimmune diseases: These conditions can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of complications.
  • Radiation therapy to the head and neck: This can damage the jawbone and make it difficult for implants to integrate.
  • Bisphosphonate use: These medications, often used to treat osteoporosis, can increase the risk of jawbone necrosis.

Determining Your Dental Implant Candidacy Today

To learn if dental implants are right for you, schedule a consultation with our Petoskey, MI dentist at (231) 347-2188. We’ll assess your oral health, discuss your options, and provide personalized recommendations based on your needs and circumstances.

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