Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
- Posted on: Oct 15 2025
Missing teeth can affect your smile’s appearance, but they can also interfere with activities like eating and speaking. If you’re seeking a long-term solution that feels natural and restores full functionality, dental implants may be the answer.
Dr. Paul Covell, a top cosmetic dentist in Pasadena, TX, and Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, works with local oral surgeons to help patients address gaps in their smiles and regain their confidence.
Are you unsure if you’re a good candidate? This blog explains some essential factors to consider.
What Makes Someone a Good Candidate?
Dental implants are a reliable option for many, but not everyone. The best candidates generally meet these criteria:
- They’re in good health: Your body needs to heal properly after implant placement.
- They have healthy gums: Gum disease can interfere with the success of implants.
- They have sufficient jawbone density: The implant needs a solid foundation to fuse with the bone.
- They don’t use tobacco: Smoking can hinder healing and increase the risk of implant failure.
- They’re committed to oral hygiene: Implants require the same care as natural teeth.
Don’t meet all of these requirements today? That doesn’t necessarily disqualify you from getting implants in the future.
Treatments That Prepare Your Smile for Implants
Even if you’re not a good candidate for dental implants right now, you might be with the proper preparation. Dr. Covell can often recommend treatments to get you implant-ready, such as:
- Bone Grafting: Rebuilds bone in areas with insufficient density or volume.
- Sinus Lift: A specific bone graft that raises the sinus floor and allows for implants in the upper back jaw, where bone tends to be thinner.
- Periodontal Therapy: Treats gum disease to ensure a healthy foundation for your implants.
- Tooth Extractions: Dr. Covell may need to remove damaged or decayed teeth before implant placement.
- Tissue Grafting: Replaces or enhances gum tissue to improve support and aesthetics, particularly in cases of gum recession.
- Orthodontics: In some cases, minor tooth movement may be needed to create proper spacing for implants.
Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation Today
Are dental implants right for you? The best way to find out is with a personalized consultation. Contact Dr. Paul Covell in Pasadena, TX, today at (713) 943-9832 to schedule your appointment.
Posted in: Dental Implants
