Dental Implants: Can Rheumatoid Arthritis Affect Your Chances?

While dental implants are the most effective tooth replacement method, they do require that you have healthy gums and a willingness to practice proper dental care. If you have rheumatoid arthritis, then this can make things difficult for you. Not only will your condition make cleaning your teeth tougher, but your RA medications can affect your restoration process. Keep reading to learn the facts about dental implants and rheumatoid arthritis before speaking with a professional!

How Can RA Impact Your Dental Hygiene?

Rheumatoid arthritis can affect a person’s capacity to use their hands. Since you’ll need to brush your teeth often to maintain dental implants, it can make your cleaning process difficult. More than impacting your ability to hold your toothbrush and perform the circular motions to polish your pearly whites, it may also take immense effort to floss effectively as well. If you’re unable to clean your teeth and gums properly, then you’ll have an increased risk of developing periodontal disease.

The Effects of RA Medications on Dental Implants

Since RA is an autoimmune disease, you’ll likely require medications that actively suppress your immune system. However, this is the very same system needed to help you during your dental implant treatment! By repressing your immune response, you may allow for infections to occur around the metal posts. Additionally, some RA medications can interfere with bone healing, which is essential for keeping dental implants in place.

Can You Still Get Dental Implants with RA?

While there are several challenges with the relation between RA and dental implants, it doesn’t mean you can’t still be a good candidate for the procedure. This is why it’s important to speak with your medical practitioner about your interest in the restorative treatment and to inform your dentist about your RA condition. In this way, the two professionals can coordinate with each other to find the best process for you. For instance, you may be given certain prescriptions with minimal effects on your immune system, that way your dental implants can bond effectively with the bone.

Replacing your missing teeth can still be possible if you inform the professionals of your RA situation. By reviewing your history and working together, your medical and dental practitioners will have a better chance of helping you restore your smile!

About the Author

Dr. Song Ahn earned his dental doctorate from the University of Texas School of Dentistry at Houston. By staying on top of the latest technology and techniques, he can provide the high-quality and comprehensive dental care you need. He offers a wide selection of advanced treatments, including dental implants, and can work with medical practitioners to help you manage your procedure and regain your smile. If you’d like to schedule a consultation for dental implants or have questions about the impact of RA, visit his website or call him at 713-869-9973.