Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
If you’ve been living with missing teeth, you’ve likely come across the idea of dental implants as a long-term solution. Considered the gold standard in tooth replacement, dental implants offer unmatched stability, aesthetics, and durability. But how do you know if you’re a good candidate?
At Cornerstone Family Dentistry, we’ve helped patients across Davenport, Camanche, Erie, and Morrison restore their smiles with this reliable and life-changing option. Whether you’re just starting your research or have already explored your choices, this guide will help you determine if dental implants could be right for you.
What Are Dental Implants?
Before diving into candidacy, it’s important to understand what dental implants are. A dental implant is a small titanium post surgically placed into your jawbone, acting as an artificial tooth root. Once it heals and integrates with your bone, it supports a custom crown, bridge, or denture that looks and functions like a natural tooth.
Unlike dentures or traditional bridges, implants are fixed in place. This means no slipping, no adhesive, and no compromising nearby healthy teeth.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Patients choose dental implants because they offer:
- Long-lasting results: With proper care, implants can last a lifetime.
- Natural appearance and feel: Implants mimic the look and function of natural teeth.
- Improved speech and comfort: No shifting or clicking.
- Bone preservation: Implants stimulate the jawbone and help prevent bone loss.
- No impact on neighboring teeth: Adjacent teeth are left untouched, unlike with bridges.
It’s no surprise so many people are seeking dental implants Davenport patients love — and we’re proud to offer this service with care and precision.
Who Makes a Good Candidate?
While dental implants are a great option for many people, there are a few criteria that help determine whether you’re an ideal candidate.
- You Are Missing One or More Teeth: Implants are designed to replace individual or multiple missing teeth. Whether you lost a tooth due to injury, decay, or gum disease, implants can provide a long-lasting, stable solution.
- You Have Healthy Gums: Good gum health is essential for a successful implant. If you have untreated gum disease, we’ll need to address that first. Healthy gums help support the implant and ensure a stable foundation.
- You Have Adequate Bone Density: Because the implant is anchored into the jawbone, sufficient bone is necessary to hold it securely. If you’ve experienced bone loss, you may still be a candidate. In some cases, we can perform bone grafting to prepare the site for successful implant placement.
- You Are in Good Overall Health: Certain health conditions can affect healing, such as uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders. During your consultation, we’ll review your medical history to ensure that dental implants are a safe option for you.
- You Don’t Smoke (or Are Willing to Quit): Smoking interferes with healing and increases the risk of implant failure. We strongly encourage patients to stop smoking before undergoing implant surgery for the best possible outcome.
What If I’m Not an Ideal Candidate Right Now?
Even if you’re not the perfect candidate today, that doesn’t mean dental implants are out of reach. Many of our patients in Camanche, Erie, Morrison, and Davenport start with gum treatment, bone grafting, or lifestyle changes before becoming ready for implants. At Cornerstone Family Dentistry, we take a personalized approach. We’ll create a plan that supports your long-term oral health and helps you reach your goals at the right pace.
Dental Implants: Davenport Relies on Them for a Reason
We’ve seen firsthand how dental implants can transform not only smiles but lives. Patients who once avoided smiling, struggled with chewing, or felt self-conscious about gaps can finally enjoy eating, speaking, and laughing with ease.
That’s why we’re proud to offer dental implants Davenport relies on — because everyone deserves to feel confident in their smile.
What to Expect from the Process
If you decide to move forward with dental implants, here’s a general idea of what to expect:
- Consultation and Planning: We take X-rays or 3D scans and review your dental and medical history.
- Implant Placement: The titanium post is surgically placed in the jawbone.
- Healing Period: Over the next few months, the implant integrates with your bone.
- Abutment and Restoration: Once healing is complete, we attach an abutment and place your custom-made crown, bridge, or denture.
- Ongoing Care: With proper oral hygiene and regular checkups, your implant can last for decades.
Our team walks with you every step of the way to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience.
The Next Step Toward a Complete Smile
If you’ve been searching for a trusted solution for missing teeth, dental implants may be the answer. With locations in Davenport, Camanche, Erie, and Morrison, Cornerstone Family Dentistry offers compassionate, expert care that puts your needs first.
We invite you to schedule a consultation and find out if you’re a good candidate. Join the many patients who have already discovered the dental implants Davenport patients love and experience the difference for yourself. A full, confident smile is within reach — and we’re here to help you achieve it.
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
