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Missing a tooth for years? Wondering if it's too late for implants? Usually not. But waiting does make things harder.
When a tooth is lost, the jawbone shrinks, like a muscle that isn't used. The longer you wait, the weaker the foundation for an implant. But here's the good news: bone grafting and advanced techniques can fix this. Even patients in their 80s successfully get implants.
The key? Acting before the damage goes too far.
1.Long-term tooth loss
Lose a tooth today, and nothing feels urgent. Chewing still works, and life goes on. But fast forward a few years, things change. The jawbone under that missing tooth? It starts shrinking. The gums? They recede. Neighboring teeth? They shift, tilting into the gap.
Can you still get an implant years later? Usually, yes. But it won't be as simple. Think of it like a house foundation! Leave a hole in the structure too long, and the ground weakens. Fixing it takes more effort. In dental terms, that means bone grafts, longer healing times, and sometimes, alternative treatments.
So, is it too late? Not always. But the longer you wait, the more complex the fix. The best time for an implant? Before the damage settles in.
2.Gum disease
Gum disease doesn't just stop at your gums. It spreads. First, it inflames the tissue. Then it eats away at the bone. Over time, teeth loosen, and implants become harder to place.
Can you still get implants? Not yet. The infection must be treated first. Implants need strong bones and healthy gums. If bacteria are still present, implant won't hold.
When is the right time? Once the gums are stable. Deep cleanings, gum therapy, and sometimes bone grafts may be needed first. Only then can an implant succeed.
3.Autoimmune diseases
Your immune system is supposed to protect you. But sometimes it gets confused. With autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or diabetes, the body attacks its own tissues, including gums and bones. This can slow healing, increase inflammation, and make it harder for implants to fuse properly.
So, does that mean implants are off the table? Not necessarily. But the process needs extra care. Autoimmune conditions don't make implants impossible, just more challenging. The risk? Slower healing, higher infection rates, and weaker bone support. The solution? Managing the condition first.
When is the right time? When inflammation is under control. If your disease is stable and medications aren't interfering with healing, implants can work. Timing, treatment, and bone health all need to be considered.
Now, picture this: trying to set concrete on shifting ground. If the surface moves too much, cracks form, and the structure won't hold. But with the right preparation, the foundation can still be strong. It's the same with implants. Stability is everything.
4.Age
The right time for dental implants is directly related to bone health rather than age. Young patients under 18 years of age have not yet completed the development of bone structures. As the bone structure continues to develop, the stability of your implant will be lost. Therefore, bone development must be complete.
There is no age limit for adult patients. Studies show that dental implants have a success rate of over 95 percent in patients aged 65 and over. Even people in their 80s can get implants if they are in good health. Implant treatments with bone grafts are applied even if the bone density is low in elderly patients.
Additional procedures for implantation
Not everyone can get a dental implant right away. Sometimes the jawbone is not strong enough or there is not enough space for implant to fit securely. Does this mean that implants are off the table? No, it does not. But it does mean that extra steps may be needed before implant is placed.
In dentistry, procedures such as a sinus lift or bone grafting prepare the jaw to properly support an implant.
Sinus lift
Have you ever wondered why upper jaw implants can be more difficult? This is because of the sinus. These air-filled cavities are located just above the upper back teeth. If there is not enough bone underneath them, placing an implant risks perforating the sinus membrane. This is where a sinus lift comes in.
So what is done? The procedure gently raises the sinus floor, creating space for bone grafting. When the new bone heals, the area becomes strong enough for an implant.
Sinus lifts are not performed on all patients. This is decided after evaluating the patient's radiological examinations.
Bone graft
If your jawbone has shrunk due to missing teeth, bone loss, or gum disease, a bone graft can fix it. This procedure adds bone where it's needed, strengthening the area so it can securely hold an implant.
Where does the new bone come from? It can be taken from another part of your body, a donor source, or even a synthetic material designed to mimic real bone. Does it work? Yes. Studies show that bone grafting has a high success rate, making implants possible even in cases of severe bone loss.
Need expert advice? We're here to help!
Dental implants are a life-changing solution, but every patient's case is unique. Not sure if you need a sinus lift or bone graft? Wondering if your jawbone is strong enough for an implant? These are important questions, and the right answers come from expert evaluation.
At Exclusive Dental Turkey, our specialist team is experienced in handling even the most complex cases. Whether you need a simple implant or additional procedures like bone grafting, we provide personalized treatment plans to ensure the best results.
Got questions? We've got answers. Contact us today! Our expert team is ready to guide you through every step, from consultation to treatment. Contact us now and take the first step toward a healthy, confident smile.