Who Qualifies for Dental Implants?

Dental implants have become the gold standard for replacing missing teeth due to their natural look, durability, and ability to restore full chewing function. However, not everyone is immediately a candidate for dental implants. Certain factors play a role in determining whether this restorative treatment is right for you.

Good Oral and Overall Health

Candidates for dental implants should be in generally good health. Since the procedure involves oral surgery, patients should be healthy enough to undergo minor surgical treatment and heal properly afterward. Chronic conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, immune system disorders, or heavy smoking may affect healing and need to be evaluated before moving forward.

Healthy Gums

Strong, healthy gums are crucial for supporting dental implants. Patients with active gum disease may need treatment before implants can be placed. Without a healthy foundation, the risk of implant failure increases significantly.

Sufficient Jawbone Density

A dental implant needs a solid base, which is provided by the jawbone. If you’ve had missing teeth for a long time, potential deterioration may have occurred. In such cases, bone grafting may be recommended to rebuild density before implant placement. A thorough examination with 3D imaging helps determine if your jawbone can support implants.

Commitment to Oral Hygiene

Successful implants require ongoing care. Candidates must be committed to brushing, flossing, and attending routine dental checkups. Poor oral hygiene can increase the risk of peri-implantitis (a gum disease affecting implants), which may lead to failure.

Non-Smokers or Willing to Quit

Smoking can interfere with healing and reduce the long-term success of implants. While smokers can still receive implants, quitting—or at least avoiding smoking during the healing phase—greatly improves the outcome.

Age Considerations

Most adults qualify for dental implants, but young patients whose jaws are still developing may need to wait until growth is complete.

Dental implants are an excellent option for many patients, but careful evaluation by a dentist or oral surgeon is essential. With proper preparation, even those who don’t initially qualify may still become strong candidates after addressing underlying issues.