Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?

December 26, 2025 9:00 am

Dental implants are widely recognized as one of the most reliable, natural-feeling solutions for missing teeth. But like any advanced treatment, they aren’t for everyone. At Blue Apple Dental Group, with offices in Rohnert Park and Santa Rosa, CA, Dr. Anthony Lieu evaluates each patient individually to determine if dental implants are the best option for their smile—and overall health.

Good General Health

A candidate for dental implants should be in overall good health, both orally and systemically. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune diseases can affect the healing process. That doesn’t mean they disqualify you—but Dr. Lieu will work closely with your medical providers to ensure implants are safe and likely to succeed.

Healthy Gums—or a Willingness to Get There

Think of your gums as the foundation for your new smile. If they’re inflamed or infected, they can’t provide the stable support implants need. But here’s the good news: gum disease is treatable. If you’re ready to restore your gum health, you could be well on your way to becoming implant-ready.

Adequate Bone Density

Dental implants need a solid anchor—your jawbone. If you’ve had missing teeth for a while, your bone may have started to shrink, but that doesn’t mean implants are off the table. Dr. Lieu uses advanced imaging to assess bone density and determine your best path forward.

Thanks to bone grafting procedures, Dr. Lieu can help rebuild the area and set the stage for long-term success. It’s all about planning ahead.

Non-Smoker (or Willing to Quit)

Smoking can significantly hinder healing and increase the risk of implant failure. While it’s not an automatic disqualifier, quitting smoking (even temporarily) improves your chances of success.

Missing One or More Teeth

Implants aren’t just for one specific kind of tooth loss. Whether you’re missing a single tooth or need a more comprehensive solution like implant-supported bridges or All-on-4 dentures, we can customize a plan that fits you perfectly.

Committed to Aftercare

Dental implants are low-maintenance but not no-maintenance. If you’re committed to brushing, flossing, and showing up for regular checkups, you’re likely a great fit. Long-term success comes down to good habits—and we’ll be right there to help you keep them.

When Implants Aren’t Ideal

Not every patient is ready for implants right away—and that’s okay. At Blue Apple Dental Group, we offer bone grafting, sinus lifts, and periodontal treatment to help more patients become candidates over time. And if implants aren’t the right fit, Dr. Lieu can guide you toward other excellent options like bridges or dentures.

Explore Your Dental Implant Options in Rohnert Park & Santa Rosa, CA

If you’re curious about whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants, schedule a consultation with Dr. Anthony Lieu at Blue Apple Dental Group. With personalized care, advanced technology, and a commitment to long-term success, we’ll help you determine the right solution for your smile. We’ll take the time to understand your goals, answer your questions, and craft a plan that helps you reclaim the full function—and full confidence—of your smile.

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