Dental implants have become the gold standard for replacing missing teeth, offering a long-lasting, natural-looking, and fully functional solution. But are they the right choice for everyone? At Atlantic Periodontics & Implants in Hampton, VA, we take a personalized approach to every patient’s treatment plan, starting with a detailed evaluation to determine your candidacy for dental implants. If you’re considering implants, this guide will help you understand the key factors that influence eligibility and how we can help you qualify.

What Makes Someone A Good Candidate For Dental Implants?

While dental implants are a suitable solution for many patients, they require a healthy foundation to succeed. This means you need adequate bone structure, healthy gums, and overall good oral health. Age is not usually a limiting factor—many adults well into their 70s or 80s can still benefit from implants.

You may be a good candidate if you:

• Are missing one or more teeth
• Have sufficient bone in the jaw or are open to bone grafting
• Have healthy gums free of active infection
• Do not smoke or are willing to stop
• Are free of uncontrolled chronic conditions such as diabetes
• Are committed to good oral hygiene and regular dental visits

Each case is unique, which is why we perform a comprehensive consultation and digital imaging to determine the best course of action for your smile.

The Importance Of Jawbone Health

One of the most important factors in implant success is the condition of your jawbone. When teeth are lost, the bone beneath them begins to deteriorate over time due to a lack of stimulation. Implants not only replace the tooth—they replace the root, preserving the bone and supporting facial structure.

If you’ve experienced bone loss, don’t worry—there are options. We may recommend bone grafting or sinus augmentation to rebuild the area and prepare it for implant placement. Our team uses advanced technology like CBCT scans to evaluate bone quality and determine exactly where and how implants can be placed safely and effectively.

Gum Health & Periodontal Stability

Healthy gums are essential for implant success. If you have gum disease or inflammation, it must be treated before moving forward with implants. As periodontists, we specialize in the health of the supporting structures of the teeth—including the gums—and can provide targeted treatment to stabilize your oral environment before implants are placed.

We may recommend periodontal therapies such as:

• Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing)
• Localized antibiotics
• Gum grafting in cases of recession
• Regular periodontal maintenance after implant placement

Our expertise in both periodontal care and implant dentistry allows us to provide a complete, integrated approach for optimal long-term success.

Chronic Health Conditions & Lifestyle Habits

Certain health conditions and lifestyle habits can affect how well you heal after implant surgery and how likely your body is to integrate the implants. While these factors don’t automatically disqualify you, they may require extra planning and collaboration with your physician.

Considerations include:

• Diabetes (should be well-controlled)
• Autoimmune disorders
• Cancer treatment history (radiation to the jaw)
• Tobacco or heavy alcohol use
• Medications that affect bone metabolism

During your consultation, we’ll review your full health history and discuss any risks or precautions needed to ensure your safety and the success of your implants.

What If I’m Not A Candidate Right Now?

The good news is that even if you’re not an immediate candidate for dental implants, many patients can become eligible with the right treatment and planning. Whether you need a bone graft, gum therapy, or help managing a health condition, we’re here to help you get there. Our team will work closely with you to develop a timeline and treatment plan that sets you up for success.

We believe every patient deserves the opportunity to enjoy a complete, confident smile—and we’ll go above and beyond to help you achieve it.

Why Choose Atlantic Periodontics & Implants?

At Atlantic Periodontics & Implants, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all dentistry. We take the time to understand your goals, evaluate your needs with precision, and design a treatment plan that’s tailored specifically to you. Our Hampton, VA team combines surgical expertise with state-of-the-art technology to deliver implant results that are secure, functional, and natural in appearance.

What sets us apart:

• Specialist-level care from experienced periodontists
• Advanced diagnostic imaging and guided surgery
• Transparent communication and personalized attention
• Supportive care before, during, and after your implant procedure