A woman smiling and showing the results of dental implants in Rapid City, SDDental implants are a popular and practical solution for filling in gaps in your smile. They are a permanent option that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth.

At Orchard Meadows Dental, we offer dental implants along with several other cosmetic dentistry services.

If you’re unsure whether this treatment is right for you, this blog can help. Discover key factors that affect your candidacy below.

Bone Health

Jawbone health and density are critical factors in determining your eligibility for dental implants.

Dental implants need a strong foundation to be successful. This foundation comes from your jawbone.

Has your jawbone deteriorated due to missing teeth or other factors? If so, it may not be able to support an implant without additional procedures like bone grafting.

Oral Health

Your overall oral health is another significant factor. Healthy gums are essential because gum disease can compromise the success of the implant.

Before considering dental implants, you must address any existing oral health issues, such as untreated cavities or periodontal disease. Once your oral health is in check, dental implants can be a viable option.

General Health

Your overall physical health also plays a role in determining whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants. Certain conditions can negatively impact the healing process and the longevity of implants, such as:

  • Uncontrolled diabetes
  • Some autoimmune diseases
  • Heavy smoking

These factors do not automatically disqualify you from dental implants, though. With proper management, many patients can still undergo the procedure.

What About Age?

Age is less of a barrier to dental implants than many people think.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a younger adult who has lost a tooth due to injury or an older adult looking to restore your smile. You may still be a candidate for dental implants. The key is to ensure your bone and gum health are sufficient.

Schedule a Consultation in Rapid City, SD

Knowing if you’re a candidate for dental implants is the first step toward restoring your smile and confidence.

The information shared above can help you determine whether implants are right for you. However, it’s also best to get a professional’s opinion before you make a final decision.

At Orchard Meadows Dental, our experienced team is here to assess your oral health and guide you through the process. Contact us today at  605-737-3150 to schedule your consultation.