The success or failure of a dental implant procedure relies on a number of factors, including the current quality of the patient's overall health. The success rate for implants decreases in patients that suffer from chronic problems, such as tooth grinding and clenching or systemic diseases, such as uncontrolled diabetes.

According to a recent report in the November/December issue of General Dentistry, individuals who smoke heavily or abuse alcohol may not be ideal candidates for the procedure.

Dental implants are an artificial tooth root surgically anchored into a jaw to hold a replacement tooth or several teeth in place, and offer a permanent solution to replace lost or extracted teeth.