Are Dental Implants Right for You? 5 Qualities of a Good Candidate

June 11, 2025

Dentist and patient discussing tooth replacement options

Are you thinking about visiting your Mesquite dentist to talk about dental implants? If so, you can truly be excited about the journey ahead! Dental implants offer a broad range of benefits and can truly be lifechanging. But are they really right for you? Your dental care team can let you know for certain. In the meantime, you can get a fair idea of whether this treatment fits your circumstances by reading about the most common qualities of a good candidate for the procedure.

Your Oral Health Is Sound

One of the most important qualities of a good candidate for dental implants in Mesquite is sound oral health. This means that your gums should be free from active infections, such as gum disease, and you should not have untreated cavities or other significant dental issues. If you do have such issues, do not worry. Your dentist can work with you to address them before you proceed with dental implants.

Your Jawbone Is Able to Support Dental Implants

A strong and adequately sized jawbone is essential for dental implants because they rely on the bone for stability. If your jawbone has deteriorated due to tooth loss, aging, or other factors, you may initially be considered unsuitable for the procedure. However, there is a solution to this situation. Your dentist may recommend a bone graft to rebuild the jawbone and make it sturdy enough to support implants.

Your Overall Health Is Fair

Your overall health plays a critical role in determining your suitability for dental implants. Chronic conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune diseases, or certain heart conditions may present challenges during the healing process.

If you suffer from health conditions, it is important to discuss your full medical history with your dentist. They will work together with your healthcare provider to assess whether dental implants are safe for you. For many, improving overall health through proper management of medical conditions can help them become better candidates.

You Have Good Habits

Your daily habits can have a significant impact on the outcome of your dental implant procedure. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene practices is essential to prevent infections and support the longevity of your implants. You should be committed to brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and using any other oral care products recommended by your dentist.

In addition to oral hygiene, avoiding harmful habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or teeth grinding is necessary. Smoking, in particular, can impair the healing process and increase the likelihood of implant failure. If you struggle with any of these habits, you should speak with your dentist about strategies to address them before moving forward with treatment.

You Are Ready to Commit to Treatment

Receiving dental implants is a process that requires commitment, and you should be prepared for the journey ahead. The timeline for treatment can span several months, especially if procedures such as bone grafting or extractions are involved. Patience will be necessary as your body heals and integrates the implants into your jawbone.

You should also be ready to invest in your care. Dental implants are a significant financial commitment, but their benefits far outweigh their cost for most individuals. Many dental offices offer payment plans or financing options to help make the treatment more affordable.

Do you think dental implants might be right for you? Talk to your dentist to learn more about your tooth replacement options.

Meet the Practice

At TrueCare Dentistry, our team is proud to offer all-inclusive dental implant services in our Mesquite office. If you are ready to attend your initial consultation, we would be happy to welcome you in and answer all your questions. Even if you are not initially a candidate, you may become one after some preliminary care. To learn more or request an appointment, get in touch with us at 469-399-7288.