While most adults with missing teeth can benefit from dental implants, several factors influence candidacy.
Favorable Factors for Implant Success
- Good overall health that allows you to undergo minor oral surgery
- Adequate jawbone density to support the implant (though bone grafting can help if you lack sufficient bone)
- Healthy gums free from periodontal disease
- Good oral hygiene habits and commitment to maintaining them
- Non-smoker status or willingness to quit during the implant process
Factors That May Affect Implant Success
- Uncontrolled diabetes or other conditions that affect healing
- Heavy smoking or tobacco use, which significantly impairs healing
- Severe gum disease that hasn't been successfully treated
- Certain medications, like those prescribed for osteoporosis
- Radiation therapy to the head or neck area
Even if you have some challenging factors, options often exist. Dr. Vazquez may recommend treatments to improve your candidacy, such as bone grafting, gum disease therapy, or collaboration with your physician to optimize health conditions.
Age alone rarely disqualifies someone—we have successful implant patients in their 80s and 90s. The most important factor is overall health rather than age.
Schedule a Dental Implant Consultation
If you need more information or want to see if you're a candidate, call our dental implant dentist in Riverside at (951) 683-0333 to schedule a personalized evaluation. We serve patients from all surrounding communities, including Jurupa Valley, Corona, and Colton.