Dental Implant Candidacy in Bradenton, Parrish, and Lakewood Ranch, FL

Do You Qualify for Dental Implants with Dr. Rubino?

Considering dental implants to restore your smile and oral health in Bradenton, Sarasota, or Lakewood Ranch? At Rubino Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we understand that determining your eligibility is an important first step, whether you’re local to our offices or coming to us from Parrish, Ellenton, or Palmetto. This page offers a detailed look at what makes someone a good candidate for dental implants. We invite you to learn about the factors that influence success and how our practice provides skilled and friendly dental implant treatment.

Taking the first step toward your health goals is simple. You can reach our Sarasota/Lakewood Ranch team at 941-201-3055, our Bradenton dental office at 941-209-5052, or our Parrish location at 813-331-5845. For those who prefer digital convenience, our online scheduling platform is available 24/7.

When Gum Disease or Bone Loss Is the Real Obstacle

Peri implantitis with gum recession Many patients are told they’re “not a candidate” for implants because of active gum disease or the bone and gum recession it causes. That’s often a treatable obstacle rather than a permanent disqualifier, and it happens to be exactly what a periodontist specializes in. Before implants can succeed long-term, any active periodontal disease generally needs to be brought under control, since untreated gum disease is one of the leading causes of implant failure.

Dr. Thomas Rubino is certified in the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique, a minimally invasive approach to treating gum recession—a certification held by roughly 4,000 dentists nationwide, with just over 1,000 of those being periodontists or other specialists rather than general dentists, out of more than 200,000 practicing dentists in the U.S. Because our practice treats periodontal disease and implant candidacy under one roof, a patient turned away elsewhere for gum disease or bone loss related to it often finds a clear, in-house path to becoming a candidate here rather than a dead end.

Are Dental Implants Right for You?

Dental implants are a popular choice for replacing missing teeth. They offer a lasting and natural-looking solution. However, not everyone is immediately a perfect fit for this procedure. Several aspects must be considered to determine if dental implants are the right option for you. Drs. Ryan, Tyler, and Thomas Rubino evaluate each patient thoroughly. Their dedication helps each patient receive the best possible care.

Factors Determining Dental Implant Candidacy

At Rubino Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we assess various factors to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants:

Oral Health

Optimal oral health is a cornerstone of successful dental implant treatment. We look for the absence of active tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease. These conditions can compromise the integration of the implant with your jawbone.

Bone Density

Sufficient jawbone density is essential to provide a stable foundation for the implant. We use advanced imaging techniques, such as cone beam 3D CT scans, to assess the amount and quality of bone in your jaw. Insufficient bone density may require bone grafting procedures prior to implant placement.

General Health

Your overall health can affect your eligibility for dental implants. We carefully review your medical history. We consider conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and heart disease, as well as certain medications that can impact healing and implant success.

Lifestyle Habits

Lifestyle choices such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can negatively influence the success of dental implants. Smoking, in particular, hinders healing and increases the risk of implant failure. We provide guidance and support to help patients modify these habits to improve their candidacy and long-term outcomes.

Commitment to Oral Hygiene

A dedication to maintaining excellent oral hygiene is vital for the long-term success of dental implants. We assess your current brushing and flossing habits and provide recommendations for improvement. Consistent and effective oral hygiene practices are essential to prevent peri-implantitis and other complications.

Age

While age itself is not a strict barrier, it can be a factor. We consider the maturity of the jawbone in younger patients and evaluate overall health and bone density in older adults.

Financial Considerations

Dental implants involve costs, and insurance coverage can vary. Our team can discuss the financial aspects of the procedure. We help you understand your options and plan for the investment in your oral health.

Medications

Certain medications, such as bisphosphonates used to treat osteoporosis, can increase the risk of dental implant complications. We review your medication history to evaluate potential impacts on implant treatment. We then adjust your plan as needed.

Realistic Expectations

Having realistic expectations about the outcomes of the procedure is important for patient satisfaction. We discuss your treatment goals and the potential results of dental implant surgery. Open communication helps establish a collaborative approach to your implant journey.

Dedication to Aftercare

The success of dental implants relies heavily on diligent post-operative care. Following your dentist’s post-operative instructions is very important. This includes maintaining excellent oral hygiene, sticking to dietary recommendations, and attending regular check-up appointments.

What to Expect During Your Candidacy Evaluation at Rubino Periodontics & Implant Dentistry

When you come to Rubino Periodontics & Implant Dentistry for a dental implant evaluation, you can expect a systematic and thorough assessment. Our goal is to provide you with a clear understanding of your oral health. We also help you understand whether dental implants are the best option for restoring your smile. This detailed process includes:

Comprehensive Oral Examination: A comprehensive examination of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. This assessment helps determine the overall health of your mouth.
Review of Medical History: A thorough review of your medical history and current medications. This will reveal any systemic conditions that may affect the success of implant treatment.
Advanced Imaging: Use of digital X-rays and cone beam 3D CT scans to evaluate bone density and identify any anatomical considerations, such as the location of nerves and sinuses.
Personalized Consultation: A one-on-one consultation with Drs. Ryan, Tyler, or Thomas Rubino to discuss your treatment goals. During the meeting, they will answer your questions and outline a treatment plan that is suited to your individual needs.
Clear Explanation of Options: A detailed explanation of all available tooth replacement options, including the pros and cons of each, to help you make an informed decision.

This extensive assessment ensures that we gather all the information needed to provide you with the best possible care. We provide a treatment plan that maximizes the likelihood of long-term implant success.

Supplemental Procedures to Improve Candidacy

While many individuals are good candidates for dental implants, some may require additional procedures to optimize their oral health and ensure the best possible outcomes. These supplemental procedures include:

Bone Grafting

If you have experienced significant bone loss in the jaw, a bone graft may be necessary to build up the jawbone before the implant can be placed. Bone grafting involves transplanting bone tissue to the deficient area to increase bone volume and density. This creates a stronger, more stable foundation for the dental implant.

Sinus Lift

A sinus lift may be necessary to create space for the implant when there isn’t enough bone height in the upper jaw, or when the sinuses are too close to the jaw. By carefully lifting your sinus membrane and placing bone graft material between your sinuses and upper jaw, Dr. Rubino can create a safe foundation for upper dental implants.

Ridge Augmentation

If the alveolar ridge (the bony ridge that supports the teeth) is too narrow or has a shallow shape, ridge augmentation may be needed to build up the area and provide a stable base for the implant. This procedure often involves bone grafting techniques to widen and reshape the ridge.

Alternative Tooth Replacement Options

If dental implants are not the right choice for you, alternative tooth replacement options include:

Dental Bridges: Dental bridges involve preparing healthy standing teeth at each end of the gap to accept supporting teeth that hold the replacement tooth in place. Dental bridges tend to be viewed as more destructive than dental implants. Teeth on either side of the gap need to be trimmed down.
Dentures: Removable dentures can replace multiple or all missing teeth at a fraction of the cost of implants. However, dentures often lack the stability and bone-preserving qualities of dental implants. They can require frequent adjustments.
Resin-Bonded Bridges: A resin-bonded bridge (also known as a Maryland bridge) uses two metal wings bonded to the back of adjacent teeth, allowing the bridge to be suspended in the gap created by missing teeth. This option is usually chosen when healthy teeth are on either side of the space; however, the bond may become loose over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get dental implants if I have gum disease?

No, individuals with active gum disease or an untreated oral infection aren’t good candidates for dental implants. The implant placement procedure needs a healthy jawbone and gums, so any active gum infections or disease must be treated before the tooth implant can be placed.

I have a history of smoking; does this mean I cannot get dental implants?

Smoking can affect the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure, so individuals who smoke may not be good candidates for dental implants. Your dentist or oral surgeon will assess your overall oral health, including your smoking history, to determine if dental implants are a suitable option for you.

Who is not suitable for dental implants?

Individuals with systemic diseases such as diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and certain autoimmune disorders may be at an increased risk for implant complications and infections. Those suffering from osteoporosis or taking medications for bone deterioration may also have a higher likelihood of implant complications.

What are the risks of avoiding tooth replacement?

Avoiding tooth replacement can lead to several oral health complications. Teeth adjacent to the gap may shift, causing misalignment and bite problems. Bone loss in the jaw can also occur, potentially changing your facial structure.

How do I prepare for a dental implant consultation?

To prepare for your consultation, gather your medical history, including a list of medications and any relevant dental records. Prepare a list of questions and concerns to discuss with the dentist. Be prepared to undergo a thorough oral examination and imaging tests to assess your candidacy.

Determine Your Dental Implant Candidacy Today

Are dental implants the best treatment for you in Bradenton, Sarasota, or Lakewood Ranch? Contact Rubino Periodontics & Implant Dentistry today to schedule your appointment. We will guide you through the treatment steps and help you determine if you qualify for dental implants. You can reach our friendly team at:

Sarasota/Lakewood Ranch: 941-201-3055
Bradenton: 941-209-5052
Parrish: 813-331-5845

At Rubino Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we transform smiles and lives, one implant at a time. We provide dental implant and gum treatment for patients in Bradenton, Sarasota, and Lakewood Ranch, as well as surrounding communities such as Parrish, Ellenton, and Palmetto. Call us today!