It can be challenging to complete daily tasks, like eating, speaking clearly, and smiling with confidence when you’re missing one or more of your teeth. Fortunately, most people make a good candidate for dental implants, a preferred tooth replacement option. However, there are certain health conditions that are a cause for concern when it comes to this restoration. Continue reading to find out if rheumatoid arthritis plays a role in your ability to get dental implants.
Why May Rheumatoid Arthritis Be a Concern for Dental Implant Patients?
Maintaining Excellent Oral Hygiene
Rheumatoid arthritis can make all sorts of activities more challenging, and that includes keeping your smile clean. It can be hard to hold the toothbrush and perform the fine motions you need to thoroughly clean your smile. Flossing can be even more challenging. When you have dental implants, it’s especially important that you maintain excellent oral hygiene. This is because dental implants are even more vulnerable than natural teeth to gum disease, so if you are unable to brush and floss thoroughly, you are much more likely to develop an infection.
Effects of Medications
Because rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, most treatments involve a suppression of the immune system. In addition to problems cleaning your teeth, this can also increase your risk of infection around the implants. Some medications used for patients with rheumatoid arthritis can also interfere with bone health. This can make it difficult for your body to incorporate dental implants. Using these medicates long-term can also reduce the bone density in the jaw, making it unstable to support a dental implant.
Can Someone with Rheumatoid Arthritis Get Dental Implants?
During your consultation, your dentist will ask you about any relevant health conditions and evaluate your oral health to determine whether or not implants are the right option for you. They will check the bone density of your jaw and the health of your gums to ensure that you make a good candidate. They will also discuss different medications that you are taking. This way, your dentist and doctor can work together to create a plan that’s ideal for your unique smile.
If you’re interested in dental implants, it doesn’t hurt to schedule a consultation. This way, you can learn more about the procedure and find out if you make a good candidate for the treatment.
About the Author
Dr. Andrew Aziz is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for more than a decade. He earned his dental; doctorate from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry and is passionate about continuing education to keep his knowledge and skills sharp. He regularly attends advanced training for many different specialties, including cosmetic dentistry, oral surgery, and endodontics. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule an appointment at his office in Frederick, visit his website or call (301) 698-9552.