Not Everyone Is a Candidate for Implants: Bone, Gums & Medical Factors
Thinking about dental implants but not sure you’re a candidate? Quick answer: implants are fantastic for replacing missing teeth, but they’re not right for everyone.
If your gums aren’t healthy, your bone is too thin, or certain medical risks are uncontrolled, you should pause and treat those issues first.
You may not be a good candidate if you have:
- Active gum disease (periodontitis): inflammation undermines implant stability.
- Insufficient jawbone density/volume without grafting options.
- Uncontrolled diabetes or immune-suppressing conditions/medications that slow healing.
- Heavy smoking or vaping: higher rates of implant failure—quit first.
- Recent head/neck radiation or long-term IV bisphosphonates (osteonecrosis risk).
- Severe bruxism (teeth grinding) without a night guard or bite therapy.
- Poor oral hygiene or high cavity risk—maintenance is non-negotiable.
- Teenagers or still-growing jaws—timing matters.
- Pregnancy—elective surgery is typically postponed.
- Unrealistic expectations or inability to attend follow-ups.
May need prep first: past gum disease (now stable), controlled diabetes, moderate bone loss (consider grafting/sinus lift), light bruxism with protection. A thorough implant consultation and 3D imaging confirm candidacy.
If implants aren’t ideal right now, consider:
- Fixed dental bridge to replace one or more teeth.
- Removable partial/complete dentures—budget-friendly and quick.
- Bone grafting or ridge augmentation to become implant-ready later.
- Mini implants in select, low-load cases (careful screening required).
Bottom line: stabilize gums, confirm bone, align medical conditions, and protect your bite. The right plan gives you a stable, natural-looking result—implant or not.
Looking for an expert opinion in New Jersey? Schwimmer Dental offers comprehensive exams, dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, broken tooth repairs, dental emergency care, and veneers.
Get a personalized, health-first treatment plan from one of the best dentists in New Jersey. Book your consult today.
FAQs
Who isn’t a good candidate for dental implants?
People with active gum disease, insufficient jawbone (without grafting), uncontrolled diabetes, heavy smoking/vaping, recent head/neck radiation, or long-term IV bisphosphonates should avoid or delay implants. Severe bruxism, poor oral hygiene, pregnancy, and still-growing jaws are additional red flags. A comprehensive exam and 3D scan confirm implant candidacy.
Can smokers or diabetics get dental implants?
Yes—if risks are managed. For diabetes, aim for good control (e.g., HbA1c in target range) and meticulous oral hygiene. For smokers, quitting before and after surgery significantly improves healing and long-term success. Your dentist may recommend a smoking cessation plan, periodontal therapy, and a night guard if you grind your teeth.
What are the best alternatives if I’m not ready for implants?
Great options include a fixed dental bridge, removable partial or complete dentures, or bone grafting/sinus lift to become implant-ready later. In select cases, mini implants may help, but require careful screening. A New Jersey implant consultation at Schwimmer Dental can map out the safest, most natural-looking plan for your smile.
Sources:
- https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/dental-implants
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/16796-bone-grafting
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470448/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40410799/
- https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/benefits-of-dental-implants
