If you have one or more missing teeth, you should certainly ask your dentist about how you can rebuild a complete smile. They will probably talk to you about dental implants, which are widely considered to be the next best thing to natural teeth. However, certain medical conditions could have a bearing on your candidacy for them. Can rheumatoid arthritis prevent you from getting dental implants? Read this blog post to discover some useful information.
Can You Maintain a Clean Mouth?
Many individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have limited mobility in their hands and wrists. Unfortunately, that can compromise their ability to thoroughly brush and floss their teeth. Because oral hygiene is extremely important for preventing infections around dental implants, your RA will certainly be something for your dentist to consider when they are determining your candidacy for treatment.
Of course, some people with RA can and do maintain excellent oral hygiene. The task can be made easier by an electric toothbrush and a water flosser, tools that require less strength and mobility than a traditional brush and floss.
What Medications Are You Taking?
RA is an autoimmune condition, so treatment often involves suppressing the immune system. Sadly, RA medications may increase the risk of infection around dental implants. They might also slow down the ability of your jawbone to heal after your dental implant surgery.
If your circumstances permit, the doctor who cares for your RA might be able to adjust your medications to reduce the risk that they will interfere with your tooth replacement journey.
Dental Implants Can Be Successful for RA Patients!
The above information might seem a bit disheartening, but it is important to remember that many people with RA and other autoimmune disorders have received implants and enjoyed a successful treatment experience.
Here are a few important points that you should keep in mind before you attend a consultation with your dentist:
- Candidacy for dental implants is determined on a case-by-case basis. Your RA is just one of several factors that will have a bearing on your candidacy for tooth replacement.
- Your dentist wants you to enjoy a complete smile. If you are not a candidate for dental implants right now, you might become one in the future after your dentist performs preliminary treatments (for example, some people need a bone graft). They might also communicate with your RA doctor to coordinate various aspects of your care.
RA might affect your ability to get dental implants — or it might not. To find out, you should consult with a qualified implant dentist.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Erin Page is an experienced dentist who has helped countless patients of varying circumstances to enjoy the benefits of dental implants. If you would like her to answer your questions about replacing your lost teeth, get in touch with the Capital Smiles team at 518-374-0317.