Who are Candidates for Dental Implants?

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Almost anyone at any age is a candidate for dental implants. Those with uncontrolled systemic disorders, such as uncontrolled diabetes, must maintain stability of their disease to improve the success of their dental implants. Smokers can generally be successfully treated with dental implants, but risk of problems with certain procedures are elevated for those who smoke. Lack of bone density is generally not a negative factor to justify avoiding placing dental implants. However, those taking certain medications for osteoporosis need to consult their general physician before engaging in dental implant care.

For more than 30 years I have successfully treated many patients from all walks of life, some of whom were well into their nineties. Click here for patient photographs. Click here for dental implant patient testimonials.

A candidate for dental implants is anyone who has lost one or more teeth due to dental disease, including tooth decay, periodontal disease, or traumatic injury. Implants are also a reasonable alternative to heroic dental procedures for many patients who have extensive periodontal disease or tooth decay, which is impractical to treat with the likelihood of long-term success. Either the amount of remaining bone, or tooth structure of a potential dental implant patient is often the determining factor between saving or extracting a tooth. Remaining bone and tooth structure determine whether dental implant replacement is preferable to other options, such as periodontal surgery, bone grafting procedures, dental crowns, bridges, or dentures.

Dental implants can last a lifetime if properly cared for. Dental implants and periodontal surgery are affordable at my dental implant centers in Los Angeles, Long Beach, Downey, and Torrance. (Click here to see which (Dental implant center is closest to you).