December 10, 2025

When Dental Implants Are Not Suitable

Dental implants are one of the most praised tooth replacement options. They are long-lasting, natural-looking, low maintenance, and preserve bone health. 

Unfortunately, not everyone can get implants. So, what's the alternative when dental implants are not a suitable solution?

Strahler Dental office

Reasons Dental Implants May Not Be a Good Option 

You may not be a good candidate for dental implants if you:

  • Don't Have Bone Density: Dental implants require sufficient bone density to form a stable foundation. If you have severe bone loss, you may not have enough healthy bone to support the implant.
  • Are Smoking: Smoking can hinder the healing process after implant surgery and increase the risk of implant failure.
  • Aren't Patient: The dental implant process requires multiple visits over several months.
  • Have a Chronic Medical Condition: Diabetes, for example, can interfere with healing after implant surgery. You also have a higher chance of implant failure. 
  • Are Too Young: Dentists don't recommend implants for children or teens as their teeth are still developing. The implant could actually interfere with normal jaw growth.
  • Have Budget Constraints: Dental implants can be costly and are not always covered by insurance. 

What Other Options Do I Have If Implants Are Not Suitable? 

As we said, implants aren't for everyone. However, you still have some fantastic tooth replacement options to choose from: 

  • Removable Partial Dentures: If you have one or more missing teeth, this type of dentures can help restore your oral health. They're supported by the remaining teeth and gum tissue and are a cost-effective solution. 
  • Complete Dentures: If all teeth are missing or need to be removed, complete dentures can replace all the teeth in one or both jaws.
  • Fixed Bridges: These are non-removable prostheses that can be used to replace one or more missing teeth. But, because they are attached to the remaining teeth, these teeth need to be strong and healthy. 
  • Removable Overdentures: This replacement option fits over a small number of remaining teeth, which serve as an anchor. 
  • Tooth-Supported Overdentures: This type of overdentures is supported by one or more remaining natural teeth.
Strahler Dental appointment

Which One Is Right for Me? 

You may be disappointed to find out that implants aren't an option for you, but as you can see, you have plenty of alternatives to choose from. 

The best option for you depends on numerous factors, like your oral health, the number and location of missing teeth, your overall health, and so on.

The dentists at Eck Dental Partners can help you restore your oral health by taking into consideration all the unique factors that affect your case. This way we will ensure that you will get the best restorative treatment for your needs. 

If you are ready to restore and transform your oral health, all you need to do is get in touch with us to book your appointment. You can contact us online or you can call us at (210) 659-1379.

Eck Dental Partners Blog

Read More Blog Articles

December 10, 2025
Front Tooth Trauma: What to Do—and How We Make Sure You Smile Again
December 10, 2025
Crowns vs. Fillings: What’s the Difference & Why We Love All-Ceramic Crowns
December 10, 2025
Are You Brushing Too Hard? The Hidden Cause of Gum Recession
December 10, 2025
Understanding Dental Specialties: A Guide
December 10, 2025
How Advanced Technology is Changing Dentistry
December 10, 2025
Regular Dental Checkups Save You More Than Just Your Teeth
December 10, 2025
Why Do Some Front Teeth Look Uneven or Worn Down?
December 10, 2025
Dentures, Snap-On Dentures, or Teeth You Don’t Take Out?
December 10, 2025
How Do Dental Implants Work?
December 10, 2025
Dental Fillings: Most Common Questions
December 10, 2025
Healing After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
December 10, 2025
When Dental Implants Are Not Suitable
December 10, 2025
What Can I Eat After Dental Implant Surgery?
December 10, 2025
How Long Does Full Mouth Restoration Take?
December 10, 2025
Can Cosmetic Dentistry Fix Receding Gums?
December 10, 2025
Can Wisdom Teeth Cause Headaches?
December 10, 2025
7 Common Orthodontic Issues That Invisalign Can Fix
December 10, 2025
Dental Implants Healing Process
December 10, 2025
Welcome to Dr. Nathan Eck Dental Partners
View More

Ready to Experience Elevated Care?