Can I get dental implants if I have gum disease?

No, active gum disease or untreated infections should be resolved before considering dental implants. Healthy gums and jawbones are essential for successful implant placement.

Is age a factor in dental implant candidacy?

Age is not a limiting factor as long as the patient’s jawbone is fully developed. Adults of all ages can benefit from dental implants if their oral and overall health are sufficient.

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

Smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure. During the healing process, it's advisable to quit or significantly reduce smoking to improve implant success rates. The artificial teeth attached to the implant are stain-resistant but continued or excessive smoking may cause discoloration down the road, requiring you to replace your dental restoration faster than normal.

Dental Implant Candidacy | Seattle, WA, Dentist Near You

Are You Looking for Dental Implants in Seattle?

Welcome to Maring Surgical, distinguished for its exceptional dental implant services in Seattle, WA. Our unique dental practice, with both an oral surgeon and a periodontist under one roof, offers personalized implant and oral surgical care. This collaboration differentiates us within the Seattle region, providing a comprehensive and integrated approach to oral health.

Dental implants can restore your smile and confidence. If you’re considering implants, call our oral surgeon in Seattle at 206-343-7500 to schedule a consultation, welcoming patients from surrounding communities like Bellevue, Kirkland, and Mercer Island.

Maring Surgical’s Specialized Referral Partnership Focus

At Maring Surgical & Dental Implant Center, we serve as the specialized surgical partner for dentists throughout downtown Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, Mercer Island, and Medina. When your family dentist encounters a complex case requiring advanced oral surgery expertise, such as impacted wisdom teeth near sensitive nerves, extensive bone grafting for implants, or oral pathology evaluation, they trust our dual-trained team to provide the specialized care you need.

Our downtown Seattle location offers convenient access for patients across the Puget Sound region, while our collaborative approach ensures seamless coordination with your referring dentist. This partnership model means you maintain your important relationship with your primary dental provider while receiving the advanced surgical care that only our specialized practice can deliver.

Are You a Dental Implant Candidate?

Dental implants are a popular choice for tooth replacement, but not every individual is the ideal candidate. Dental implant success depends on several key factors, which must be carefully assessed by our team. Excellent oral health is a primary criterion, ensuring no existing signs of tooth decay or gum disease. Adequate jawbone density is also crucial to securely anchor the implant. Patients should also be in general good health, as chronic illnesses like diabetes and heart disease may impact candidacy.

Key Factors for Dental Implant Eligibility

Sufficient Bone Density

A strong and healthy bone structure is crucial for the long-term success and stability of dental implants. When a tooth is lost—whether due to decay, injury, or periodontal disease—the underlying bone may begin to deteriorate over time. This bone loss can compromise the implant’s ability to integrate properly and support the prosthetic tooth.

bone grafting

In cases where significant bone loss has occurred, additional procedures may be required before implant placement. One common solution is bone grafting, which involves the surgical insertion of bone or bone-like materials to augment the existing bone. This process can help create a more robust foundation, ensuring that the dental implant can securely anchor into the jaw.

Healthy Gums

The health of the periodontal tissues is crucial for the long-term success of dental implants. Before any implants can be surgically placed, it is essential to address and manage any active gum disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis. This treatment is necessary to create a healthy environment for healing and to ensure that the implant can properly integrate with the jawbone.

man checking gums for signs of periodontal issues

Neglecting to treat gum disease before the placement of implants can lead to complications, including infection, implant failure, and instability. A thorough evaluation of the periodontal condition should be conducted, and appropriate therapies, such as deep cleaning or surgical interventions, may be required to restore gum health. Once the gums are healthy, the body is better equipped to facilitate the healing process and provide a stable foundation for the dental implants.

Overall Health

Several health conditions can significantly affect the healing process following dental procedures, particularly the placement of dental implants. For instance, uncontrolled diabetes can lead to impaired blood circulation and an increased risk of infection, which are critical factors in the body’s ability to heal properly. Additionally, autoimmune disorders may interfere with the body’s natural healing mechanisms, further complicating recovery.

Smoking and Alcohol Use

Smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol can significantly hinder the healing process following medical procedures, particularly those involving implants. These habits can impair blood flow and reduce oxygen levels in the body, which are crucial for recovery and tissue regeneration. As a result, patients may need to make lifestyle modifications to enhance the success rates of their implants. This could include quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake, as these changes can lead to improved overall health and a better environment for healing.

Supplemental Procedures to Enhance Candidacy for Seattle Area Patients

For some patients, additional treatments may be required to prepare for dental implants:

Bone Grafting: Rebuilds jawbone density for a solid implant foundation.
Sinus Lift: Increases bone height in the upper jaw by lifting the sinus membrane.
Ridge Augmentation: Expands or reshapes the jaw ridge to improve implant placement.

Our oral surgeon in Seattle is skilled in performing these preparatory procedures. Contact our downtown Seattle dental office at 206-343-7500 to discuss how we can help you achieve a beautiful, functional smile.

I have complete confidence in Dr Maring; he is efficient, thorough in explaining things, & excellent at what he does. I am so thankful for him & his staff! for him & his staff.

— Lucille N.

Everyone in the office was helpful, skillful, and efficient. I was treated with compassion and professionalism. My questions and concerns got immediate responses. I was so impressed! In addition, I experienced minimal pain after my tooth extraction.

— Marianne C.

The treatment has been excellent and Dr Maring is thorough and thoughtful in his approach. I especially like the time he spent educating me on my condition and treatment options. Very kind and responsive office staff.

— Doug B.

From the time I first called to make my appointment, walked in the office and met with Dr. Maring, I was treated professionally and respectfully.

— Theresa L.

I have been a patient of Dr. Susan Maring’s for more than 20 years. When I have needed the help of a dentist, she knew just the right people. She demonstrates tremendous commitment to her patients. I am lucky to have her in my life.

— Susan C.