If you’re missing one or more permanent teeth and are considering replacing them with dental implants, you may be curious about whether this treatment is right for you. While the good news is that many patients easily qualify for these life-changing prosthetics, if you have rheumatoid arthritis, you may need to make some adjustments first. Here’s a closer look at how RA affects dental implants, and which lifestyle changes may need to be made before your smile can be restored.
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune illness that causes swollen and painful joints. With RA, your body’s immune system attacks healthy cells, making things like healing and staying healthy a challenge. Unfortunately, there’s no cure this condition, but there are several medications available to manage the symptoms.
Why Does Rheumatoid Arthritis Complicate Dental Implant Treatment?
Because rheumatoid arthritis can harm healthy cells, this can complicate the healing process for dental implants. That’s is because several common medications for RA suppress the immune system to lower the risk of it harming your healthy cells. Unfortunately, however, this can make recovery difficult because you need to be strong and healthy to avoid complications such as infections that can cause dental implant failure.
Furthermore, many patients with rheumatoid arthritis struggle to complete routine hygiene tasks like brushing and flossing their teeth. For dental implants to be a success, you’ll need to take excellent care of your teeth and gums, but if you can’t do this yourself you may not be a good candidate.
Considerations for Dental Implants with Rheumatoid Arthritis
The good news is that a rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis is not an automatic disqualifier for dental implants. In fact, many patients with RA go on to have successful restorations. However, to determine if this treatment is right for you, it’s important to be completely upfront with your dentist about your RA diagnosis, especially the medications you are taking and your current ability to care for your smile. Often, your rheumatologist can change your prescription to something that suppresses the immune system less, improving your restorations’ odds for success.
Furthermore, if you can care for your teeth and gums on your own or have someone who is willing to do this for you, you could still qualify.
Remember, although it may complicate treatment, a rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis is not an automatic disqualifier for dental implants. To learn more about this procedure and see if you’re a good candidate, schedule a consultation with your dentist today, and be sure to disclose the details of your RA for a more successful outcome.
About Our Practice
At Gold Coast Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Yusupov and Dr. Yunov are proud to provide a variety of smile restoration options, including dental implants. If you have rheumatoid arthritis but aren’t sure if this treatment is right for you, schedule a consultation with us today to learn more about how it could help repair your smile. To book your appointment, visit our website or call us today at 516-744-6262.