Gum disease is a common cause of tooth loss, and it’s natural to wonder if dental implants are still an option afterward. Even if you have less severe gum disease that hasn’t progressed to periodontitis, you might be concerned that compromised gums could affect the success of dental implants.
The good news is that having gum disease doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t get implants. However, it’s important to address and treat the gum disease first. Healthy gums are key to ensuring that the implant can heal and integrate properly with the bone. Without this foundation, the implant may not have the support it needs to stay secure.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are medical devices surgically implanted into the jaw to restore one’s ability to chew or their appearance. Dentists place them into the jawbone to support replacement teeth or bridges. They look and function like natural teeth and provide a strong foundation for fixed or removable teeth.
Healthy gums and enough bone are vital for the success of dental implants, as they need to bond with the jawbone to stay secure.
Implants can last 10–20 years and even a lifetime, with a 90-98% success rate, with proper care and good oral hygiene, making them a popular choice for tooth replacement. They help maintain the structure of the jawbone and prevent the shifting of surrounding teeth.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is an infection of the gums and surrounding tissues that support your teeth. It starts with plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist.
There are two main stages of periodontal disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the early stage in which the gums become red and swollen and may bleed easily.
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious condition in which the gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. This can lead to bone loss, and if not treated, the teeth may become loose and eventually fall out.
Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are essential to prevent and manage periodontal disease.
Impact of Periodontal Disease on Dental Implants
Healthy gums and a strong jawbone are crucial for implants to bond properly and stay secure. Gum disease weakens these structures, making it harder for the implants to integrate with the bone.
When the gums are infected, the risk of implant failure increases. The infection can spread to the bone, causing it to deteriorate. This can prevent the implant from anchoring correctly, leading to instability and potential implant failure.
It is essential to treat and manage periodontal disease before getting dental implants. When you come to Hanna Dental Implant Center, Dr. Hanna will carry out a thorough evaluation of your oral health and treat any underlying disease before proceeding with dental implants.
Proper care and treatment can improve gum health and increase the chances of successful implantation. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene are key to maintaining healthy gums and supporting the longevity of dental implants.
Can You Get Dental Implants If You Have Periodontal Disease?
Yes, you can get dental implants even if you have periodontal disease, but certain conditions must be met. First, you need to bring the gum disease under control. Dr. Hanna will recommend treatments like deep cleanings, scaling, and root planing to remove the infection and reduce inflammation.
Once the gum disease is managed, our dentist will evaluate the health of your gums and jawbone. If the disease has caused significant bone loss, you might need additional procedures like bone grafting or a different type of implant, known as a zygomatic dental implant, to ensure your implant is well supported.
Many people with periodontal disease can receive dental implants with proper treatment and care. To ensure the best outcome, it is crucial to follow your dentist’s advice and maintain good oral hygiene.
Solutions and Treatment Options
If you have periodontal disease and want dental implants, several treatment options can help prepare your mouth for the procedure:
Frequent dental cleanings
Regular professional cleanings can help control gum disease. These cleanings remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing might miss.
Oral hygiene routine
Establish a strict oral hygiene routine at home. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria and inflammation.
Medications
We may prescribe antibiotics or antimicrobial mouth rinses to reduce infection and inflammation in your gums.
Following these treatment options and working closely with your dental team can improve your oral health and increase the likelihood of successful dental implants.
Achieve Your Best Smile with Hanna Dental Implant Surgery
Having periodontal disease does not automatically disqualify you from getting dental implants. With the right treatments and careful management of your gum health, you can still enjoy the benefits of dental implants.
If you are considering dental implants and have concerns about gum disease, seek professional advice. At Hanna Dental Implant Center, we are dedicated to providing personalized care and effective solutions to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile.
Contact us now to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards improving your oral health and restoring your smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get dental implants if I have periodontal disease?
Yes, you can get dental implants even if you have periodontal disease. However, it is essential to treat and manage the disease first. Proper treatment can help improve gum health, making it possible to support dental implants successfully.
What treatments are available for periodontal disease before getting dental implants?
Treatments for periodontal disease before getting dental implants include frequent dental cleanings, establishing a strict oral hygiene routine, taking prescribed medications, deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing, bone grafting for bone loss, and gum grafting for severe gum recession. In some cases, referral to specialists like oral surgeons or periodontists may be necessary.
How does periodontal disease affect the success of dental implants?
Periodontal disease can weaken the gums and jawbone, which are crucial for supporting dental implants. Infected gums and deteriorated bone can prevent the implants from bonding correctly, increasing the risk of implant failure. Treating and managing periodontal disease is essential to ensure the implants have a strong foundation and remain stable.
Can periodontal disease return after getting dental implants?
Yes, periodontal disease can return after getting dental implants if proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits are not maintained. It’s important to continue taking care of your gums and teeth, following your dentist’s advice, and attending regular check-ups to prevent the recurrence of gum disease and ensure the long-term success of your dental implants.
