Dental implants are one of the most trusted and long-lasting solutions for replacing missing teeth. But while they offer incredible benefits—like restored function, natural aesthetics, and bone preservation—not everyone is an ideal candidate right away. If you’re considering implants, here are a few characteristics that may indicate you’re a good fit.
Good Overall and Oral Health
One of the first things your dentist will evaluate is your overall health. Because implant placement involves minor oral surgery, candidates should be healthy enough to heal properly. Chronic conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or ongoing infections may affect the body’s ability to recover after implant placement.
Similarly, good oral health is essential. Active gum disease or untreated tooth decay can compromise the success of implants and must be addressed before beginning the process.
Sufficient Jawbone Density
Dental implants need a strong, stable foundation—namely, your jawbone. After tooth loss, the bone in that area may begin to shrink or deteriorate over time. If there isn’t enough bone to support the implant, it may not fuse properly.
The good news is that bone grafting procedures can help rebuild bone in areas where it’s lacking, making implants an option for more people than ever before. Your dentist will use X-rays or digital scans to assess your bone density during the evaluation process.
Non-Smoker or Willing to Quit
Smoking and tobacco use can significantly impact your candidacy for dental implants. Smoking slows healing, increases the risk of infection, and is linked to a higher rate of implant failure. If you currently smoke, your dentist may advise quitting before, during, and after treatment to give your implants the best chance of long-term success.
Commitment to Oral Hygiene
Dental implants don’t get cavities—but the gum tissue and bone surrounding them can still be affected by poor oral hygiene. Conditions like peri-implantitis, a form of gum disease around implants, can lead to implant failure if not managed.
Candidates should be committed to maintaining good daily habits like brushing, flossing, and attending routine dental visits. If you’re already consistent with dental care, that’s a great sign.
A Realistic Outlook and Patience
Getting dental implants is not an overnight process. It can take several months from consultation to final restoration, especially if preparatory procedures like extractions or bone grafting are involved. A good candidate understands the timeline and is motivated by long-term benefits rather than quick fixes.
While these are some of the most common qualities found in strong dental implant candidates, the only way to know for sure is to schedule a consultation with your dentist. They’ll review your health history, examine your smile, and walk you through the treatment process.
About the Practice
Westbury Dental Spa offers advanced restorative and cosmetic dental services in a relaxing, spa-inspired environment. Our experienced team is proud to provide expert implant placement and care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. From initial consultation to final results, patients can expect a personalized, compassionate approach to their smile restoration journey.
Call us at (516) 282-5100 or request an appointment online.