If you’re missing permanent teeth and considering replacing them with durable, natural-looking dental implants, you may be wondering if you qualify for treatment. The good news is that if you’re in good oral and overall health, you likely do. But sometimes, patients with medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis are concerned about whether they’ll be able to get these incredible prosthetics. Here’s a closer look at why your RA diagnosis doesn’t automatically disqualify you from dental implants, but how it could make treatment look a bit different.
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to attack its healthy cells, resulting in painful swelling in the joints. It can also cause a variety of challenges and complications for those who are healing from surgery such as a dental implant placement procedure.
How Can Rheumatoid Arthritis Complicate Dental Implant Treatment?
Unfortunately, while there is still no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, there are several treatments available that can make the condition a lot more manageable. To do their job, however, many of these medications must suppress the immune system, making it harder for the patient to heal from illnesses and surgical procedures like dental implant placement.
RA can further complicate dental implant treatment because patients with the condition often struggle with basic oral hygiene care, including brushing and flossing. Because maintaining your smile is so essential to the success of your dental implants, these struggles can increase the risk of dental implant failure in patients with RA.
Can I Get Dental Implants with Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Although having rheumatoid arthritis can certainly increase your risk of dental implant failure, it doesn’t automatically disqualify you from treatment. In fact, there are many patients living with RA who have gone on to successfully restore their smiles with these beautiful prosthetics!
The best way to determine dental implants are right for you is to visit your dentist for a consultation. At this appointment, be sure to disclose your medical history, including any medications you may be taking. In some cases, you may need to switch to a different treatment with your rheumatologist if necessary. It is also essential that you are honest about your current ability to maintain your oral hygiene.
Remember, although rheumatoid arthritis can make everyday life a challenge, it doesn’t automatically disqualify you from dental implant treatment. To learn more about your options and to see if you’d be a good candidate despite your RA diagnosis, schedule a consultation with your dentist today.
About Dr. Patel
Dr. Ronak Patel has earned an incredible three dental degrees, including two before he left India and one from the prestigious Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of the University of Southern California. He is a current member of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, and the Pinhole Academy. To schedule a consultation at Penn Dental Arts for dental implants, visit our website or call us today at 484-406-3110.