The short answer is: most adults are candidates for dental implants. The long answer takes a detailed exam, a 3D scan, and a conversation about your goals. These are the seven factors a periodontist evaluates.
1. Bone volume and density
An implant needs bone on every side. If yours has shrunk, a bone graft or sinus lift can rebuild it.
2. Gum health
Active periodontal disease must be treated before placing implants. The same bacteria that destroyed your natural teeth will attack an implant if left untreated.
3. Overall health
Most medical conditions—even controlled diabetes, blood pressure issues, or heart disease—are compatible with implants. We coordinate with your physician when needed.
4. Smoking and tobacco use
Smoking roughly doubles implant failure rates. We do not refuse care, but we ask patients to cut down or quit during the healing window for the best chance of success.
5. Age (almost no upper limit)
Implants require a fully developed jaw, so we wait until late teens at the earliest. There is no upper age limit—patients in their 80s and 90s do beautifully.
6. Bite and grinding habits
Heavy grinding (bruxism) puts extra force on implants. A nightguard solves it for nearly everyone.
7. Realistic expectations
Implants are a process, not a one-day procedure. The result is a tooth that looks, feels, and functions like the original—but the timeline can take 4–6 months for the bone to fully integrate.
Ready to talk to a periodontist?
Comfortable consultations, same-day estimates, and a clear plan—every time.
