Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are one of the most effective ways to replace missing teeth. With a success rate of over 95% when placed in healthy individuals who take proper care of them, dental implants offer a stable, long-lasting solution that looks and feels natural. But while implants work well for many people, they aren’t the right option for everyone. Your jawbone strength, gum health, and overall medical condition all play a role in whether implants are a safe and lasting fit. 

Read on to learn about the most important factors to consider so you can feel confident about your next steps and find out where you can find the best dentist for dental implants in West San Jose.

The Importance of Healthy Gums and Sufficient Jaw Bone Density for Dental Implant Success

For dental implants to work properly, you need healthy gums and enough strong bone in your jaw. Your gums play a crucial role in supporting healing after the implant is placed and protecting against peri-implantitis, a type of infection that can develop around the implant if your gums aren't in good condition. Additionally, if you have gum disease, it must be treated before surgery. Active infection can stop the implant from bonding with your jawbone and lead to failure. 

Just as important is having enough bone to hold the titanium post in place. If you've lost bone due to gum disease or a missing tooth, you may need a bone graft to rebuild the area. Before moving forward, your dentist will typically take a CT scan or digital dental X-ray to assess the bone and determine if grafting is necessary. 

How Does My Overall Health Affect Dental Implant Success? 

Your overall health also plays a significant role in whether dental implants will heal properly and last in the long term. Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders can slow down your body’s ability to heal, which increases the risk of complications after surgery. Smoking also makes healing harder because it reduces blood flow to the gums, which can lead to implant failure. That’s why your dentist or oral surgeon will take time to review your full medical history before deciding if dental implants are a safe option for you. By understanding your health conditions and ensuring they’re well-managed, your dental team can help improve your chances of a successful outcome.

Dental Implants vs. Dentures: Which One Is Better after Tooth Loss

After losing a tooth, many people wonder whether dental implants or dentures are the better choice. Dental implants are often preferred because they feel more like natural teeth and provide better support for chewing and speaking. You can usually get implants after losing a tooth, but the timing is important. If you wait too long, your jawbone may shrink, and you might need a bone graft before getting the implant. 

Some people who have worn dentures for years choose to switch to implants because they’re more stable and comfortable. If you're not a good fit for individual implants, implant-supported dentures can be a great alternative, combining the security of implants with the coverage of traditional dentures.

How Old Do You Have to Be to Get Dental Implants?

When it comes to dental implants, age matters less than you might think. For younger patients, implants are usually placed once jaw growth is complete. This typically happens around age 18, though it can vary from person to person. Placing implants too early can lead to problems if the jaw is still undergoing changes in shape. On the other end of the spectrum, there’s no upper age limit. Many seniors get dental implants with great results, especially when they’re in good general health. In fact, your overall health and ability to heal are more important than your age when deciding if implants are a safe and effective option.

How to Take Care of Dental Implants

Taking care of dental implants is key to making sure they last a long time and stay healthy: 

• Just like natural teeth, implants need daily brushing and flossing to prevent plaque buildup and gum problems. 
• Avoiding tobacco is also important because it can slow healing and increase the risk of implant failure. 
• Regular dental check-ups, both during and after this process, help catch any issues early. 

Where to Find the Best Implant Dentist in West San Jose 

Getting a dental implant is a big decision, and at Pries Dental Care, we make sure you feel informed, confident, and genuinely cared for every step of the way. Our team combines advanced restorative techniques with a warm, patient-centered approach to help you regain a strong, natural-looking smile. We utilize cutting-edge technology, including in-house CEREC crown fabrication, to deliver precise and beautiful results without unnecessary delays. 

Whether you're missing one tooth or several, we’ll walk you through every option clearly so you know exactly what to expect. At our practice, dental implants aren’t just a procedure; they’re a personalized journey toward long-term health and function.

Ready to get a confident smile back with help from the best dental implant dentist in West San Jose?