Most healthy adults missing one or more teeth are candidates for implants, but a few factors shape the plan. Understanding them ahead of time makes your consultation far more productive.
Healthy Gums and Enough Bone
Because an implant anchors into the jaw, we first look at the foundation. Healthy gums free of active infection and enough bone volume to hold the post are the two things that matter most at the outset.
If a tooth has been missing for years, some bone may have shrunk away. That does not rule out an implant, it simply means we may recommend a bone graft first to rebuild a stable base. Many patients who were told elsewhere that they could not have implants turn out to be perfectly good candidates once grafting is on the table.
Overall Health and Habits
General health plays a supporting role. Well‑managed conditions like diabetes rarely prevent implants, but they can affect how quickly you heal, so we plan around them. Smoking is the habit we talk about most, since it slows healing and raises the chance of complications.
None of this is meant to discourage you. It simply helps us give the implant the best possible environment to fuse and last. Being honest about your health and habits at your consultation lets us tailor the timeline realistically.
When to Book a Consultation
The only way to know for certain is an exam that includes imaging of your jaw. At Cambie Dental we use a three‑dimensional scan to measure bone and map out the nerves and sinuses before any decision is made.
If you are weighing implants against a bridge or denture, bring your questions. We would rather spend the time helping you compare all the options than steer you toward one. The right answer is the one that fits your mouth, your goals, and your budget.
