Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the joints, often making everyday tasks like brushing, flossing, and eating more difficult. Because RA can influence oral hygiene and overall health, many people wonder whether this condition prevents them from getting dental implants. The answer isn’t always simple—while RA can increase certain risks, many patients with this condition can still successfully receive implants with the right precautions.
Understanding how RA interacts with the implant process can help you make an informed decision with your dentist and healthcare providers.
How Rheumatoid Arthritis Impacts Oral Health
One of the biggest challenges RA patients face is limited mobility in the hands and wrists. This can make brushing and flossing thoroughly more difficult, increasing the risk of plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth loss. Since gum health plays a major role in implant success, RA-related oral health issues must be managed before treatment. Some individuals with RA also experience dry mouth due to medications or the condition itself, which can further contribute to tooth decay and oral infections.
Medications and Their Effect on Dental Implant Healing
Many people with rheumatoid arthritis take medications that suppress the immune system to control inflammation. While these drugs are essential for managing symptoms, they may slow healing and increase the risk of infection after dental implant surgery. Because dental implants rely on a process called osseointegration—where the implant fuses with the jawbone—anything that affects bone healing or immune response must be carefully evaluated. However, this doesn’t automatically disqualify you. Your dentist and rheumatologist can work together to determine whether any temporary medication adjustments might help support better healing.
Higher Risk Doesn’t Always Mean You’re Not a Candidate
Although RA can increase the chances of complications, many patients with autoimmune conditions still experience successful long-term outcomes with dental implants. Your dentist will look at factors such as bone density, gum health, tobacco use, oral hygiene habits, and overall immune function before deciding if implants are suitable. In some cases, additional treatments—such as bone grafting, gum disease therapy, or customized hygiene routines—may help improve candidacy.
Alternatives to Consider if Implants Aren’t the Best Option
If your healthcare team determines that dental implants pose too great a risk due to your RA or medications, you still have several tooth replacement options. Dental bridges and removable dentures can restore chewing ability, improve speech, and maintain your smile’s appearance without requiring surgery. Your dentist will help you weigh the pros and cons of each choice to find the solution that aligns best with your health needs.
Talk to Your Providers to Make the Best Choice
Living with rheumatoid arthritis doesn’t automatically rule out dental implants, but it does mean you’ll need a personalized treatment plan. The best next step is to discuss your medical history, medications, and oral health with your dentist and doctor so they can determine whether implants are a safe and effective option for you.
About the Practice
Summerlin Center for Aesthetic Dentistry provides high-quality restorative care, including dental implant crowns for patients seeking a durable and natural-looking tooth replacement. Our dynamic team offers personalized treatment plans to meet individual health needs.
Call us at (702) 844-6224 or request an appointment online.