Medically reviewed by Dr. Hunter Dawson
Dental implants are the gold standard for tooth replacement. Whether you have lost a tooth or anticipate needing a tooth extracted, dental implants can provide you with long-lasting, natural-looking smile restoration. Generally, anyone who has lost teeth can get dental implants. However, if you have existing medical conditions, your surgeon may take extra precautions to ensure your well-being.
Dental Implants and Existing Medical Conditions
Hypertension
One common condition is hypertension. Also known as high blood pressure, this condition forces your body to work harder to circulate blood, adversely affecting your ability to heal.
You can manage high blood pressure concerns by carefully selecting the correct type of sedation, which helps keep your anxiety in check. Additionally, your surgeon will review the medications you take to manage your hypertension so there is no adverse interaction with the sedation or other medications administered.
Diabetes
Diabetes can complicate the body’s ability to heal, which makes some patients reluctant to pursue surgery. Rest assured that, so long as you have your diabetes under control with either lifestyle or medication, you still qualify for a safe and successful dental implant placement. Ask your surgeon for additional information.
Jawbone Loss
When you lose a tooth and do not have it immediately replaced with an implant, you may experience the loss of bone in your jawbone. This loss of jawbone makes it harder to place dental implants, as they have nowhere to anchor. Through bone grafting, your surgeon can regenerate bone where you need it most, making you eligible for a successful dental restoration. Zygomatic implants are an additional option for those with insufficient bone in their upper jaw.
Learn More About Dental Restoration
Even with an existing medical condition, you may still enjoy long-lasting dental restoration through implant placement. Find out more about the benefits of dental implants and your eligibility today.
