Dental implants can be an effective solution for almost anyone, regardless of age or the number of missing teeth that need to be addressed. Implants are not generally advised for young children because their jaw growth is not yet complete. However, in some instances a dental implant could be appropriate, such as when it is part of a child's orthodontic treatment plan. Consultation with a family dentist or orthodontist will help parents decide if dental implants are appropriate in their child's particular case.

Otherwise, even some health conditions that could prevent a patient from undergoing other types of surgery may not rule out the possibility of successful dental implant surgery.

Almost any patient who can have routine dental treatment can generally receive a dental implant. While precautions are advisable for some conditions, even patients with chronic diseases such as high blood pressure and diabetes are usually candidates for successful dental implant surgery.

Patients who have lost their teeth to periodontal disease or decay are among the more successfully treated using dental implants. Implants can also replace removable bridges or dentures, or they can be used to stabilize and secure the denture, making it more comfortable and giving the patient greater peace of mind.

Although smoking has been shown to lower the success rate of implants, it doesn't eliminate consideration of the treatment as a viable solution.

Otherwise, the primary predictor for the success of dental implants in a particular patient is the volume and condition of the bone in the area of the jaw where the implant will be placed.

When a tooth or teeth are lost, there is a natural resorption, or a thinning, of the bone in the area. The less bone available in which to place the implant, the greater the chance of the implant not "taking." In cases where there is not enough bone to support a successful implant, the surgeon may perform a bone graft. At Angeles Dental, we use a synthetic bone grafting compound that is easier and more successful than bone on bone grafting. It can usually be done at the time of the implant surgery, allowing everything to heal into place together, which ultimately makes for a more solid implant.