Dental implants are often called the “gold standard” for tooth replacement because they look, feel, and function just like natural teeth. However, at Dental At Forest Hill, we believe in transparency: while implants are a fantastic solution for many, they aren’t the right choice for everyone.
Because an implant requires a surgical procedure and a process called osseointegration (where the bone bonds to the implant), certain health and lifestyle factors can stand in the way.
5 Groups Who May Not Be Good Candidates
1. People with Insufficient Bone Density
An implant is like a screw that needs a solid “wall” to hold onto. If you have been missing a tooth for a long time, the jawbone in that area may have shrunk (atrophied). Without enough bone height or thickness, the implant won’t have the stability it needs to succeed.
- The Good News: In many cases, we can perform a bone graft to rebuild the area before placing the implant.
2. Heavy Smokers or Vapers
Smoking significantly slows down the body’s healing process and reduces blood flow to the gums and bone. This increases the risk of “implant failure,” where the bone fails to bond with the post.
- Our Advice: We typically ask patients to quit or significantly cut back well before and after the surgery to give the implant a fighting chance.
3. Those with Uncontrolled Chronic Illnesses
Certain conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders, can interfere with the body’s ability to heal after surgery. If your body can’t fight off minor infections or regenerate tissue effectively, an implant is much more likely to fail.
4. Patients with Active Gum Disease (Periodontitis)
You wouldn’t build a house on an unstable foundation. Implants require healthy gum tissue to stay protected. If you have active gum disease, the bacteria can attack the area around the implant, leading to a condition called peri-implantitis.
- The Fix: We must treat and resolve any gum disease at Dental At Forest Hill before we can proceed with implant surgery.
5. Children and Young Teens
Dental implants should only be placed once the jawbone has finished growing. If an implant is placed too early, it can become misaligned as the rest of the jaw continues to develop. This usually means waiting until the late teens or early twenties.
Comparison: Implants vs. Alternatives
| Feature | Dental Implant | Dental Bridge | Partial Dentures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Durability | 15–25+ years (Permanent) | 7–15 years | 5–10 years |
| Surgical? | Yes | No | No |
| Bone Health | Prevents bone loss | Does not prevent bone loss | Can accelerate bone loss |
| Cost | Higher initial investment | Moderate | Most affordable |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Am I too old for dental implants?
Age is rarely the deciding factor! Health is much more important than the number on your birthday card. We have successfully placed implants for many seniors who have good bone density and controlled health.
Q: If I have bone loss, is it impossible for me to get an implant?
Not at all. Thanks to modern techniques like bone grafting and sinus lifts, we can often “create” the bone needed to support an implant.
Q: Does the procedure hurt?
Most patients report that the procedure is less uncomfortable than a tooth extraction. We use local anesthesia to ensure you are numb, and we offer sedation options for those who feel extra nervous.
Q: What is the success rate of implants at Dental At Forest Hill?
Generally, dental implants have a success rate of about 95–98%. By screening for the “red flags” mentioned above, we ensure our patients have the highest possible chance of a perfect outcome.
Find Out for Sure
The only way to know with 100% certainty if you are a candidate is through a comprehensive consultation. Using digital X-rays and exams, our team at Dental At Forest Hill can assess your bone structure and medical history to create a personalized plan.
Ready to find out if you’re a candidate? Contact Dental At Forest Hill today to book your implant consultation!
Contact the team at Dental At Forest Hill today. Let’s save your tooth together.
📍 Visit us at 250 Canterbury Rd, Forest Hill, VIC 3131
📞 Call Tel: (03) 9878 3233 to book your appointment today