Understanding dental implants eligibility
Not sure if you’re eligible for dental implants? Learn what makes someone eligible for dental implants—and what to do if you’ve been told you’re not.
Who makes a good candidate for dental implants?
Dental implants are designed to support long-term oral function and comfort, but not every patient will meet the initial criteria for treatment. Here are some common factors used to assess dental implant eligibility.
Minimum requirements for dental implant eligibility
At a baseline, patients are typically considered for dental implants if they meet the following conditions:
Healthy gums with no active periodontal disease
Sufficient bone quality to support an implant
No ongoing infections
Stable health to undergo minor oral surgery
Willing to follow oral hygiene and post-procedure instructions
While children are rarely considered for implants, there is no strict age limit. Eligibility depends more on health status, oral condition, and healing ability than on age alone.
Medical conditions that don’t disqualify you
Certain health conditions may raise concern but don’t necessarily disqualify patients. For example:
Diabetes, if well-managed, may still be compatible with implants
Controlled heart conditions or high blood pressure are often evaluated on a case-by-case basis
Osteoporosis may be considered depending on its severity and any related medications that affect bone healing
Having reviewed your medical history, your ClearChoice doctor may also coordinate with your physician to assess readiness for care.
Bone quality expectations
A 3D scan or diagnostic imaging is typically used to assess bone quality in the jaw and help determine whether implant placement is appropriate. Concerns related to bone quality may be addressable through procedures such as bone grafting of the jaw or sinus lifts subject to individual evaluation.
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Who should be cautious about getting dental implants?
Dental implants are designed to support long-term oral function and comfort, but not every patient will meet the initial criteria for treatment. Here are some of the most common factors used to assess dental implant eligibility.
Common health conditions
Bone loss or poor jaw quality
Smoking and lifestyle risks
What else may disqualify you from dental implants?
Other certain conditions may limit a patient’s eligibility for dental implants, either temporarily or, in rare cases, over the long term.
Oral health concerns
Dental implant treatment may not be recommended in the event of severe untreated gum disease and other risk factors that could affect healing or implant stability. In these cases, other treatment options may be considered after underlying conditions are stabilized.
Situational or temporary ineligibility
Temporary ineligibility may be related to recent extractions or other oral trauma that need time to heal, delayed recovery from illness or surgery, or pregnancy. In these situations, your provider may recommend revisiting eligibility once elective surgery can be safely considered.
Can you become eligible for dental implants later?
Not being eligible for dental implants right now doesn’t mean the door is closed. Many patients become eligible over time, with the support of additional procedures, medical care, and lifestyle adjustments.
Bone grafting and sinus lifts
If your jaw doesn’t have sufficient bone quality to support implant placement, bone grafting to rebuild jaw structure or sinus lifts to increase bone height in the upper jaw may be recommended.
These are typically completed several weeks or months before implant placement to allow time for healing and integration.
Managing health conditions before surgery
Certain medical conditions don’t automatically rule out implant treatment. Taking appropriate steps, such as improving blood sugar control for patients with diabetes, can help support healing and increase the likelihood of implant eligibility.
Adjusting medications
Adjusting any medications that can impact bone healing may help support recovery and improve your candidacy for dental implants. These steps, which should only be undertaken with medical supervision, can be discussed on a case-by-case basis with your ClearChoice doctor.
Quitting smoking or adjusting medications
Smoking is among the most common modifiable factors that can affect dental implant eligibility. Quitting smoking or avoiding tobacco before and after surgery can increase your eligibility for treatment and chances of implant success.
“I’m extremely happy that I made this investment in myself, because I know that it’s going to last me for the rest of my life and I will always have this smile.”
Rita, ClearChoice San Diego
What else do providers evaluate?
Determining your eligibility involves a comprehensive evaluation of your oral and overall health, medical history, and any factors that may affect healing or treatment planning.
Initial consultation
A dental implant consultation typically includes diagnostic imaging and discussion of your goals. You will explore potential treatment options with the doctor and have time to ask questions about the dental implant process.
The consultation is expected to be a fact-finding visit, designed to help you understand your options and whether treatment may be appropriate now or at a later time. Many people recognize that the treatment is just what they have been looking for and decide to proceed during their consultation visit.
Diagnostic imaging and bone evaluation
One of the first steps in evaluating the patient and planning for implants is the use of advanced imaging to assess jawbone health.
This scan helps evaluate:
Bone quality and available space for placement
Proximity to nerves, sinuses, and other anatomic structures
Whether additional procedures, such as bone grafting, may be appropriate
Full medical history review
As part of the evaluation process, your medical history is also carefully reviewed, including:
Current and past health conditions
Medications that may affect healing, such as bisphosphonates or corticosteroids
Any history of radiation therapy or immunosuppressive treatment
Are there alternatives if I’m not eligible for dental implants?
If you're not currently eligible for dental implants (or choose not to pursue them), there are still effective ways to restore function and confidence to your smile. A ClearChoice doctor can explain alternative treatments based on your long-term goals and needs.
Implant-supported dentures
For some patients, implant-supported dentures (also known as overdentures) may be an alternative to fixed full arch implant.
These dentures are anchored to fewer implants, but still offer greater stability than traditional dentures.
This may be appropriate for individuals with moderate bone loss or other factors that limit their ability to undergo more extensive surgical procedures.
Removable dentures or fixed bridges
Other alternatives include removable dentures, which can replace multiple or all missing teeth and are custom-fit to your mouth. Fixed dental bridges, which use adjacent natural teeth to support a prosthetic tooth, is another option.
While these treatments differ from dental implants in terms of design and support, they may still offer meaningful improvements in function and appearance, depending on your needs.
“We walk every patient through the process and address any fears they have–no matter how specific.”
Dr. Carolina Cespedes, ClearChoice
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Dental implant eligibility FAQs
What are the downsides to dental implants?
Dental implants involve minor oral surgery, a healing period, and a financial commitment. As with any procedure, there are potential risks, including infection, delayed healing, or complications with the implant site. However, for many patients, implants are considered an effective long-term treatment when the procedure is appropriate and healing progresses as expected.
Is there an age limit for dental implants?
There is no upper age limit for dental implants. Many older adults choose implants as a long-term solution for missing or failing teeth. What matters most is your overall health, bone support and ability to heal.
Can bone loss prevent me from getting implants?
Significant bone loss in the jaw can limit your ability to receive dental implants, at least initially. However, procedures such as bone grafting and sinus lift may be recommended to help rebuild support.
Are implant-supported dentures better?
Implant-supported dentures can offer more stability than traditional removable dentures and may be recommended for patients who aren’t candidates for full arch implant procedures. They typically involve fewer implants and may require less bone support. Whether this approach is better depends on your oral health and specific treatment goals.
When should I consider bridges or dentures instead?
You may want to explore options like fixed bridges or traditional dentures if you’re not currently eligible for dental implants, prefer a non-surgical treatment path, or need to delay implant care due to medical timing or other personal considerations.
What questions should I ask my provider about eligibility?
You may want to ask questions like:
What factors are affecting my eligibility right now?
Are there ways to improve my chances of becoming eligible in the future?
What are my alternatives if dental implants aren’t recommended at this time?
How might timing, medications, or other health conditions influence my treatment plan?
Still unsure if you qualify?
A ClearChoice doctor can review your health history, perform any necessary imaging, and help you understand whether dental implants (or another solution) may be appropriate for your needs.
Speak to a ClearChoice® doctor today
Schedule a free consultation to learn about your dental implant eligibility and treatment options.