Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants San Jose, CA
Most people are candidates for dental implants and their benefits. The dental implants procedure is a tooth restoration that involves inserting implant posts into the jaw to support a dental prosthesis. However, certain aspects of a person's oral health can determine whether they can receive dental implants or not.
Dental implant restoration is available at NuSmile Dental & Orthodontics in San Jose and the surrounding area. Dentists often recommend dental implants after performing a comprehensive evaluation of the patient. Call us today at (408) 791-2800 to book an appointment or learn more about our services.
An Overview of Dental Implants
According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, more than three million Americans have dental implants, and the number continually grows by approximately 500 thousand each year. Dental implants are small titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone to serve as the root of a replacement tooth. The titanium posts are later topped with the replacement tooth or teeth usually in the form of a crown, bridge, or denture.
Individuals with missing or severely damaged teeth can achieve a more attractive smile and restore their oral health and function to an ideal level through dental implants. Unlike with dentures, there are no messy gluing and cleaning procedures and they do not have to be taken out at night. They are the tooth replacement option that most closely resembles the function of natural teeth.
“Individuals with missing or severely damaged teeth can achieve a more attractive smile and restore their oral health and function to an ideal level through dental implants.”
Possible Dental Implant Options
According to the American Dental Association, implants are one of the biggest advances in dentistry in the past four decades. Along with helping to restore functionality and completing a set of teeth, dental implants can also help restore the appearance of a natural smile. It is a versatile treatment option that works to treat a variety of complications including:
One Missing Tooth
Many dentists recommend dental implants to patients who have a missing tooth. Whether the missing tooth is the result of natural aging, a blow to the face or another cause, implants work well as a long-term replacement solution. For single tooth replacement, a dental crown will also be attached to the implant. The dental crown will provide the appearance of a natural tooth.
Multiple Missing Teeth
Implants are also an option for multiple missing teeth, as well. For a section of two or more missing teeth, the dentist may recommend dental implants with a bridge attachment. For full arch replacement, it might be best to attach a full denture to surgically-placed implants in the jaw.
Severely Damaged Teeth
Most dentists will try and save the natural tooth after damage occurs through dental crowns or another type of restoration. However, there are times when damaged or loose teeth are better off being removed and replaced with dental implants. This is the case in situations where an infected tooth threatens the patient's oral and overall health.
“Along with helping to restore functionality and completing a set of teeth, dental implants can also help restore the appearance of a natural smile.”
Factors That Enable Patients to Receive Dental Implants
Healthy Gums
Having healthy gums is crucial to a patient being able to receive dental implants. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults and is, therefore, one of the most common inhibitors to being eligible for dental implants. Periodontal diseases damage the gum and jawbone supporting the teeth. Since dental implants integrate with the jawbone, any infection that affects the gum may also jeopardize the jawbone. There is a high risk of implant failure in patients with uncontrolled or untreated gum disease. Until the condition is under control, the dentist will not recommend getting dental implants.
Sufficient Bone Density
Aside from healthy gums, having healthy bone density is also crucial to dental implant candidacy. Bone density affects the condition of the jawbone. Jawbone health is crucial because it provides primary support for the implant. Without proper reinforcement from a strong bone, the implant restoration may come loose. The dentist will examine the jawbone to ensure it has the strength and density to hold an implant. Jawbone deterioration may follow advanced gum disease, causing erosion of healthy bone structure or tooth loss, when the jawbone stops receiving stimulation due to tooth loss. Fortunately, the dentist can use a bone graft to boost the strength and integrity of the jawbone.
“Aside from healthy gums, having healthy bone density is also crucial to dental implant candidacy.”
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The Procedure
A dental implant procedure can take many months because it involves multiple procedures that require healing time in between. Exactly how long and how many procedures will depend on the patient's unique situation. For example, patients who need bone grafting can expect the process to take longer.
Overall, patients undergo a series of outpatient procedures, typically starting with removal of damaged teeth or any bone grafting needed to prepare the jaw. Then, the dental titanium post is placed and the patient must recover after that procedure. It is important to give the jawbone ample time to heal around the post. The final step is the placement of the replacement tooth or teeth in the form of a crown, bridge or permanent denture.
“Exactly how long and how many procedures will depend on the patient’s unique situation.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. How are dental implants used to replace missing teeth?
Q. How long does the implant procedure take?
Q. What factors enable a patient to receive dental implants?
Q. What other common issues can prevent a person from being a dental implant candidate?
People Also Ask
Q. What happens during the implant placement surgery?
Q. When is bone grafting necessary?
Q. How can I make the most of my dental implant consultation?
Q. What are the benefits of dental implants?
Other Common Inhibitors to Dental Implants
Teeth Grinding or Clenching
People who grind or clench their teeth may need to take extra precautions to protect their dental implants. Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can be the result of anxiety, sleep, stress, and hyperactivity. Bruxism places undue stress on the teeth and causes premature implant failure. Patients who grind their teeth need to take necessary precautions before getting dental implants, including the use of a mouthguard to protect the teeth from the effects of bruxism.
Patience for the Procedure
Another factor that may determine if dental implants are right for you is patience. Dental implant restoration may take as long as six months because of the osseointegration process. The dentist will only place the final restoration on the dental implants after the bone heals fully. Preliminary procedures such as bone graft may add to the timeline. Fabricating the final restoration may also take weeks. Anyone considering dental implants needs to prepare for the commitment.
“People who grind or clench their teeth may need to take extra precautions to protect their dental implants.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What happens if I have crooked or crowded teeth but need dental implants?
A. Crowded or crooked teeth can prevent a person from receiving dental implants successfully. Fortunately, patients can receive dental treatments such as tooth extraction to create space to place the implants. In addition, patients with crooked teeth may need teeth straightening treatment to align their teeth.
Q. Is there an age limit to getting dental implants?
A. Dental implants are suitable for adults with permanent teeth. Although older patients can get implants, they may not have the required bone density to support an implant, especially if they have worn dentures for long. In such cases, a mini dental implant may be the more appropriate option since the metal post is shorter and needs less bone structure.
Q. Can I still receive dental implants if I wear dentures?
A. The dentist may be able to support your dentures with dental implants. Implant-supported restorations are usually stronger and fitting than regular dentures. It will also prevent further jawbone resorption, which is common with denture wearers.
Q. How long does it take to receive dental implants?
A. The number of implants determines the duration of treatment. It may take about an hour to complete the placement. There is a waiting period during which the bone heals. Once osseointegration is complete, the dentist will complete the final restoration in no time.
Q. Are there any risks associated with dental implant placement?
A. Like any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated. Issues are rare, and are usually minor and easily treatable should they occur. Such risks include infection, injury or damage to the surrounding oral structures, sinus issues, and nerve damage.
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Dental Implant Terminology
Call Us Today
We are here to help patients make the right decision about treatment and determine if they are a good candidate for dental implants. If you are interested in learning more about dental implants treatment, then call us at 408-791-2800. We can schedule a time for you to come in for a visit. We can determine what your oral health needs for a healthy and bright smile.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2026
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2026
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2026
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