Home / Dental implants / Implant candidacy
CAL DENTAL GROUP • LOS ANGELES
Is implant treatment right for you?
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Michael Issakharian, DDS
Dental implant candidacy is determined by an examination, health-history review, and appropriate imaging. Bone loss, age, or a health condition should be discussed individually rather than treated as an automatic yes or no.
Or call 323-934-2804
What will the team evaluate?
Your dentist assesses the missing-tooth area, neighboring teeth, bite, gums, and supporting bone. The evaluation also considers your goals: one replacement tooth, a bridge, a removable implant denture, or fixed full-arch teeth. The proposed restoration helps guide the surgical plan.
Healthy gums and adequate support
Gum disease or an unsuitable implant site may need attention before placement. Ask whether periodontal treatment, grafting, or a different restoration is recommended and why. Implants also need healthy surrounding tissues after placement, so the plan should address both preparation and ongoing maintenance.
Medical history, medicines, and tobacco
Bring a current medication list and explain any history of diabetes, head or neck treatment, tobacco use, or medicines affecting bone. These details help the team assess healing and surgical risks. Your dentist may coordinate with your physician. Do not stop or change prescribed medicines on your own.
Age and the practical demands of treatment
Age alone does not determine suitability. Growth can affect timing for younger people; health, healing, cleaning, and follow-up matter for adults. Tell the team if hand mobility, travel, caregiving, or dental anxiety could make treatment or maintenance difficult. The restoration should fit the care you can realistically manage.
Make an informed choice
Ask which teeth can be retained, what must happen before surgery, which alternatives are suitable, and who will provide each stage. Request a written plan covering timing, temporary teeth, costs, and risks. The consultation should give you room to compare the choices and ask questions.
EXPERIENCE AT CAL DENTAL GROUP
10,000 implants over 20 years
Practice-wide implant experience, with general dentists and specialists working together in our Los Angeles office.
Plan your visit
936 Crenshaw Blvd, Suite 101
Los Angeles, CA 90019
Explore all dental implant options
Meet Dr. Michael Issakharian, oral and maxillofacial surgeon, and Dr. Pedram Fakheri, periodontist.
Ask which clinician will provide your surgical and restorative care.
Questions patients ask
Can I have implants if I have diabetes?
A clinician must assess your health and healing risks individually. Share how the condition is managed and ask whether coordination with your physician is needed.
Does smoking matter?
Yes. Smoking can affect healing and implant outcomes. Discuss tobacco use honestly and ask about support before treatment.
What if I was told I do not have enough bone?
Ask for an updated evaluation of the site, available records, and possible alternatives. Grafting or a different design may be considered, but no option can be promised without assessment.
Continue exploring your options
Bone loss & grafting
Bone loss does not automatically end the implant conversation.
Cost & financing
The cost of dental implants depends on what is being replaced and the care needed to complete the treatment.
Implants vs dentures & bridges
Dental implants, dentures, and bridges can all replace missing teeth.
Patient education from Cal Dental Group. Updated October 21, 2026. Meet our dental team.
Additional reading: AAP: Dental implant procedures and candidacy · FDA: Dental implant benefits and risks.
This guide explains options to discuss with your clinician. Your examination determines the appropriate treatment, risks, and timeline.