If you have some dental problems that you believe can be fixed with one or more dental implants, you'll likely want to meet with a dentist who performs this work for a consultation. The first step in any dental process is to evaluate whether you're a good fit for the procedure, and your initial appointment will serve as an opportunity for the dentist to assess whether dental implants will work for you. There are some scenarios in which a family dentistry professional will inform the patient that he or she isn't a good candidate for an implant. If you're facing this situation, here are some options for you to consider.

Do What Your Dentist Tells You

Some people can be poor candidates for dental implants because of certain oral health issues. For example, a patient with gingivitis is usually not a good candidate for this procedure, but that doesn't mean that he or she can never get a dental implant. Often, your dentist will explain the things that you need to do. For example, he or she might indicate that if you stay on top of your brushing and flossing, and have regular professional cleanings, you may eventually become a suitable candidate for this procedure.

Get A Second Opinion

Different dentists have different approaches to procedures such as dental implants. If you've just learned that you're not a good candidate for this treatment, you may want to further explore the idea by seeking a second opinion. Do some online research for dentists in your area — or perhaps even slightly beyond it — to find a dentist who has a reputation for providing dental implants for people whom other dentists have labeled as poor candidates. Seek a consultation with this dentist, and you may learn that he or she could help you.

Consider Other Procedures

There are dental patients who are poor candidates for dental implants and whose situation is not one that will improve. For example, if you have an oral health issue that has led to considerable bone loss, you may never be able to have an implant put in. In such a scenario, don't be afraid to ask your dentist about other procedures that can work as an alternative. For example, you may find that a dental bridge or dentures can give you the look that you're hoping to get — a perfect smile that makes you feel happy and confident each time you display it.