How Dentists Determine Dental Implant Eligibility
Yorkshire Dental Suite’s world-class team of implantologists have transformed countless smiles nationwide – and yours could be next. Book a consultation now.
Considering dental implants but don’t know if you are eligible? During this blog, we will talk you through the criteria you need to meet in order to have this treatment.
The importance of a dental implant consultation
No dentist wants to waste your time, or promise something that isn’t achievable. That’s why a dental implant consultation is essential – this appointment allows your dentist to see what is possible.
To do this, your Yorkshire Dental Suite consultation includes X-rays, a CBCT scan and a full examination of your medical history, as well as an oral health check. During this appointment your dentist will also discuss finance.
Dental implants suitability will be determined once this has all been taken into consideration. If you are deemed illegible, your dentist will discuss alternative procedures. On the other hand, if you are deemed eligible, your custom-made treatment plan will be created.
Can anyone get dental implants?
As long as your mouth is in a healthy condition, you are generally eligible for dental implants. One of the most common questions we receive is, when can you have a dental implant? Put simply, age rarely plays a factor in suitability.
What is the youngest age for dental implants?
We typically recommend waiting until your jawbone has fully developed (around the age of 21) before having a dental implant fitted. Exceptions may be made in special circumstances, for example, if you have lost an adult tooth due to injury. Young people with dental implants are more common than you think!
What is the oldest age for dental implants?
It doesn’t matter if you’re 70, 80 or even 90 – there is no upper age limit for dental implants. However, the longer you postpone the treatment, the higher the chance of bone loss. Certain medical risks are also heightened, including an adverse reaction to sedation or anaesthetic.
Who is a candidate for dental implants?
As mentioned earlier, the eligibility criteria is very small. We do ask that the following applies to help ensure a safe and smooth procedure:
- There is no gum disease present (hygienist appointments available)
- You have good bone density (bone grafts available)
- Your gums are not receding (gum grafts available)
- You have more damaged or missing teeth than saveable teeth
Who is not a good candidate for implants?
So who are dental implants not suitable for? If any of the following applies, your eligibility may be impacted:
- You are unable to get finance due to credit issues
- You take recreational drugs
- You are currently undergoing radiotherapy
- You smoke
- You have any of the following medical issues: diabetes, an autoimmune disorder, certain heart conditions or a bone disorder
Why would a dentist not recommend an implant?
Dental implants are not suitable for everyone. If your tooth/teeth can be saved, your dentist will recommend an alternative treatment, as extraction and implantation is a last resort. In addition to this, if you cannot commit to the lengthy recovery time, this is one of the biggest reasons not to get dental implants.
For the first 3 – 4 months following the procedure, your mouth is recovering from the surgery. Diet modifications and special cleaning techniques are just two of the changes you need to make to your everyday routine, and we do not advise that you smoke or vape either. This helps to prevent infection or failure of the implant altogether.
FAQs
Yorkshire Dental Suite has compiled some common questions we receive about dental implant eligibility, and answered them below.
Can you pull a tooth and get an implant later?
Absolutely. Dental implants for missing teeth are a popular procedure. However, the longer you leave a gap, the more likely you will experience bone loss. Did you know? You also have the option of removing a tooth and having an implant fitted the very same day.
How common are dental implants?
Very – in the year 2022, it was estimated that 238,900 implant and abutment procedures were carried out nationwide (1).
Who qualifies for dental implants on the NHS?
Eligibility is extremely rare. If you cannot wear dentures, have been in an accident or suffer with health conditions such as mouth cancer, you may be able to receive NHS treatment.
Conclusion:
Yorkshire Dental Suite are specialists in teeth implants. Book a consultation today to kickstart your journey to a healthier smile.
References:
(1) https://www.globaldata.com/store/report/uk-dental-implants-and-abutments-procedures-market-analysis/