You've decided a dental implant is the solution to replace your missing tooth. But you still have lots of questions, and one of them may be about whether or not your health history or other factors make you a good candidate.
The honest answer is that some health factors do affect your candidacy, but they rarely mean an automatic no. As your dental implants dentist in Aurora, CO, Dr. Holly Baller's job is to evaluate the full picture and, when possible, coordinate care so you can move forward safely.
Smoking and Dental Implants
Smoking is the most significant lifestyle factor affecting implant success. Nicotine restricts blood flow to the gums, which slows healing and raises the risk of implant failure.
That said, many smokers do successfully receive implants. Dr. Baller will talk honestly with you about your habits, recommend a plan for quitting if possible, and outline realistic expectations before treatment begins.
Diabetes and Implant Candidacy
Uncontrolled diabetes impairs healing and increases infection risk, two factors that directly affect how well an implant integrates with your jawbone. But controlled diabetes is a different story. Patients with well-managed blood sugar can often be excellent implant candidates. We'll review your A1C levels and, when needed, coordinate with your physician to time treatment appropriately.
Medications That Can Affect Implants
A few drug categories deserve a closer look:
- Osteoporosis medications (bisphosphonates) can affect jawbone metabolism and healing
- Immunosuppressants may slow tissue integration
- Blood thinners like warfarin affect surgical planning and bleeding management
- Long-term corticosteroids can compromise bone density over time
None of these are automatic disqualifiers, but they do require careful planning and monitoring.
Schedule a Consultation to Learn More
A thorough health review before deciding on dental implants is crucial and an important determining factor in their long-term success. Call Baller Dental & Ortho at Southlands at (720) 653-3223 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Baller today.