Dental implants are a transformative solution for missing teeth, offering a permanent, natural-looking alternative to dentures or bridges. However, if you have gum disease, you may wonder if dental implants are still an option for you. Understanding the relationship between gum health and dental implants is key to making an informed decision about your oral care.
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar. It often progresses in stages:
Gingivitis: The early stage, characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing.
Periodontitis: The advanced stage, where the infection damages the bone and tissue supporting your teeth.
Left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and complications for your overall health, including links to diabetes, heart disease, and more.
Dental implants require a healthy foundation to succeed. They are anchored into the jawbone, mimicking the root of a natural tooth. If gum disease has caused significant damage to your gums or bone, it may compromise the implant’s stability.
Here are the main concerns:
Bone Loss: Gum disease can erode the jawbone, which is critical for supporting an implant.
Infection Risk: The presence of active gum disease increases the risk of infection around the implant site, which can lead to implant failure.
Healing Complications: Gum disease can slow the healing process and make it harder for the implant to integrate with the jawbone.
Yes, you can still get dental implants if you have gum disease, but it requires proper treatment and preparation. Addressing the gum disease first is essential to create a healthy environment for the implant to succeed.
To prepare for dental implants, the first step is to treat gum disease. Your dentist will focus on eliminating the infection and restoring gum health through various methods. Professional cleanings or scaling and root planing may be performed to remove plaque and tartar buildup. In some cases, antibiotic therapy is used to reduce bacterial infection, and if the damage to the gums is extensive, surgical procedures like gum grafts may be necessary.
If gum disease has caused significant bone loss, bone grafting might be required. This procedure helps rebuild the jawbone, ensuring it is strong and dense enough to provide adequate support for the dental implant.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is also critical during the preparation and after implant placement. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups play a vital role in keeping your gums healthy and ensuring the implant remains secure. Consistent care helps prevent infection and supports the overall success of the treatment.
Finally, your dentist will develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This personalized approach ensures that all aspects of your oral health are optimized before proceeding with the dental implant process, setting you on the path to a healthy and confident smile.
Having gum disease doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the benefits of dental implants. With proper treatment and preparation, dental implants can still be a viable and successful option for restoring your smile. Addressing gum disease, strengthening your jawbone if needed, and maintaining excellent oral hygiene are essential steps in ensuring the longevity of your dental implants. Our team will assess your oral health, answer your questions, and guide you through the process of restoring your smile.
If you’re considering dental implants but have concerns about gum disease, schedule a consultation with Apex Implant Center & Dentistry. Visit our office in West Covina or Placentia, California. Call (626) 671-5800 or (657) 837-0007 to book an appointment today.