When someone receives a cancer diagnosis, one of the most common treatment modalities their doctor may recommend is radiation therapy. Once your treatment is completed, you will likely try to regain a sense of normalcy, which includes scheduling dental appointments. If, during a routine visit, your dentist finds that your smile may benefit from dental implants, you may wonder if you’re able to receive them after your cancer treatment.
There are several factors that will affect your ability to get dental implants after radiation therapy.
DENTAL IMPLANTS AND RADIATION THERAPY
WHERE YOU RECEIVED RADIATION
Thanks to modern technology, radiation can usually be applied to a very specific area on your body. If radiation was applied to the lower areas of your body, you could be a good candidate for dental implants. However, if radiation was applied to your neck or head, you may not be eligible for dental implants since radiation can negatively impact your jaw.
HOW MUCH RADIATION YOUR RECEIVED
Typically, the more radiation you received, the more potential damage there has been to your jaw. In some cases, this can put you at a higher risk for implant failure.
ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS POSSIBLE AFTER RADIATION?
The possibility of getting dental implants after receiving radiation therapy is often entirely based on your personal experience and treatment. For this reason, it’s best to consult both your dentist and oncologist for a proper evaluation of your jaw.
While certain materials, such as XircOn™ used in our Dallas office, provide a more secure, durable hold, and have a very slim chance of failing, speaking with your doctor will help set realistic expectations about your chances of successfully receiving implants.
RESTORE YOUR SMILE AT RADIANCE DENTISTRY, DENTAL IMPLANT CENTER
With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Iskander can carefully asses your teeth and make expert recommendations on the best way to use dental implants to improve your smile.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation. You can also visit our Youtube channel to hear the doctor talk about this himself!