Most adults in Phoenix, AZ, and surrounding communities, such as Mesa, Glendale, and Scottsdale, who want to restore missing teeth, correct gum recession, or address moderate to severe gum disease often turn to advanced periodontal procedures such as dental implants, bone grafting, or LANAP®. Dr. Trujillo, a board-certified periodontist in Phoenix, AZ, emphasizes that candidacy must be carefully evaluated before any treatment recommendation is made. This guide highlights the real-world factors he and other specialists consider, along with checklists and explanations to help patients better understand the process.
Dental Implant Candidacy Checklist
Dental implants are among the most effective and predictable solutions for replacing missing teeth. However, not every patient automatically qualifies. At his Phoenix practice, Dr. Trujillo carefully evaluates the following:
- Jawbone Health: Adequate bone width (5–7mm), height (7–10mm), and density are necessary. CBCT imaging is used to measure these accurately.
- Gum Condition: Healthy gum tissue with minimal probing depths and no signs of active periodontal disease or bleeding.
- Systemic Health: Good healing potential, including controlled diabetes (HbA1c < 7.0%), normal clotting, and no recent history of radiation or immune compromise.
- No Active Oral Disease: Any untreated cavities or gum disease must be resolved before implant placement.
- Lifestyle Commitments: Non-smokers—or those willing to quit—have higher long-term success rates, especially when combined with consistent oral hygiene.
What if Jawbone Is Weak?
In many cases, Dr. Trujillo recommends bone grafting or sinus augmentation to strengthen the jawbone and prepare for future implants.
Bone Grafting Patient Guide
Bone grafting is commonly recommended when natural bone has been lost or resorbed. It helps provide a strong, stable foundation for implants.
Who Needs Grafting?
- Patients who have experienced bone loss from periodontal disease, trauma, or tooth extraction.
- Those with soft or thin jawbones identified during 3D imaging.
Types of Grafts:
- Autograft: Bone harvested from the patient (chin or hip).
- Allograft: Donor bone from a human source.
- Xenograft: Biocompatible bone from animal sources.
- Synthetic: Lab-created grafting material.
Recovery: Healing typically takes 3–9 months before implants can be placed, depending on the graft and the patient’s healing response.
LANAP® (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) Eligibility
LANAP® is a minimally invasive treatment for gum disease that eliminates bacteria and promotes tissue regeneration without cutting or stitches.
Who Benefits?
- Patients with moderate to severe periodontitis looking for a less invasive option.
- Individuals wanting less discomfort, reduced bleeding, and quicker recovery compared to traditional gum surgery.
Disqualifiers:
- Patients with uncontrolled systemic conditions such as diabetes.
- Those unable to maintain consistent home care routines.
Provider Expertise: Dr. Trujillo is LANAP®-certified and stresses the importance of choosing a periodontist with proper training and advanced experience.
Assessment Process: What to Expect
At his Phoenix practice, Dr. Trujillo provides a thorough evaluation for patients from Phoenix, Mesa, Glendale, and Scottsdale:
- Oral Examination: Gum health assessment, probing depth measurements, bite analysis, and tooth stability testing.
- 3D Imaging: CBCT scans to evaluate bone quality, density, and sinus placement.
- Medical Review: Review of systemic conditions, medications, and relevant medical history.
- Personalized Plan: Customized recommendations, treatment sequencing, and long-term periodontal maintenance.
Quick Reference: Candidacy Table
| Procedure | Key Qualifications | Barriers & Solutions | Extra Steps |
|---|---|---|---|
| Implants | Healthy gums, adequate bone, good health | Bone loss or gum disease → treat or graft | CT scan, medical stabilization |
| Bone Graft | Thin/soft jawbone, bone loss | Active infection → treat first | Healing phase, graft type chosen |
| LANAP | Periodontitis, healthy immune function | Poor hygiene or uncontrolled illness | Certified provider required |
Common Questions Answered
- Can patients with diabetes receive implants? Yes, as long as blood sugar levels are well-controlled (HbA1c < 7.0%).
- Is bone grafting painful? Most patients report only mild, short-term discomfort, with healing outcomes being very predictable.
- Can smokers receive implants or LANAP®? Smoking lowers success rates. Dr. Trujillo strongly advises patients to quit before surgery.
- Who should perform LANAP® or bone grafting? Patients should always see a board-certified periodontist with advanced training, such as Dr. Trujillo, who serves the Phoenix metro area.
Schedule a Consultation
Contact Dr. Trujillo’s Phoenix office to schedule your consultation—conveniently located for patients in Phoenix, AZ, and from Mesa, Glendale, or Scottsdale.
