Health Conditions You Should Tell Your Implant Dentist

Dental implants require surgery for placement and strong jaws for stability. As a result, some conditions can impact candidacy for this treatment. Here are health conditions that you should tell our dentists about before getting implants.

Heart Disease and HIV/AIDS

These conditions reduce immunity to bacteria, making surgery more risky. In cases of heart disease, implant placement may raise dangers of infections that could contribute to other complications in the blood vessels.

Diabetes and Osteoporosis

Both of these conditions can reduce capacity for bone healing, which is essential after implant surgery. Diabetes can also decrease immunity. With osteoporosis, the jaws may not support the implants for the long term.

Smoking and Heavy Drinking

Smoking can affect implant placement in two ways. Because of the nicotine in tobacco, smoking can inhibit healing after surgery. The action of smoking can also disturb the oral tissues during the healing process. Alcohol, which thins the blood, could make surgery hazardous by increasing risks of uncontrolled bleeding. Nutrient deficiencies associated with alcoholism could also impact healing.

A review of medical and dental history and current health is essential before implant placement. To find out more about conditions that may affect implant candidacy, you can schedule a consultation with our dental implants dentists.