Yes, you can get dental implants with gum disease, but it requires careful management and treatment of the gum disease first.
Read on to learn more about how to navigate your dental implant treatment with gum disease successfully while understanding the factors involved, the risks, and the necessary preparatory steps.
Can You Get Dental Implants with Gum Disease?
Factors to consider when getting dental implants with gum disease
Your health state is fundamental to determining if you are a good candidate for dental implants while having gum disease. Your periodontal health and gum and teeth condition have a crucial role in implant dentistry.
Factors such as the severity of your gum disease, overall oral health, and medical base conditions can considerably impact your eligibility for the treatment.
Therefore, a comprehensive dental examination is essential to determine whether your gums can support the implants or if you require additional treatments.
Also, the health and quality of your jawbone and surrounding tissues are crucial to ensure a stable foundation for your new implants.
Risks and complications of getting dental implants with gum disease
Getting dental implants with untreated gum disease lays out multiple risks that can include:
- Implant failure due to mucositis or peri-implantitis
- Periodontal Infections
- Severe deterioration of your gum tissues and bone structure.
Keep in mind that gum disease can cause inflammation and bone loss around your implant, making the implant loose and mobile.
Therefore, treating your gum disease before you get your implants is critical to mitigate these risks and ensure the long-term success of your treatment.
Importance of consulting with a dental professional
Getting implants with gum disease represents a step further in complexity. Therefore, consulting your case with an experienced and licensed dental specialist is crucial to guarantee a safe procedure with predictable results.
Your specialist can evaluate your current condition and possible complications to recommend a personalized treatment plan.
Usually, this treatment plan involves treating gum disease and other conditions first to proceed with the implant procedure once your gums and jawbone are healthy.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of biocompatible materials to replace one or multiple missing teeth.
Your dentist places them into your jawbone, where they fuse with the bone to provide a secure base for a future prosthesis.
Typically, dental implants consist of three main components: the implant post, the abutment, and the crown, bridge, or denture.
Benefits of Dental Implants For Patients With Missing Teeth
Dental implants are top-of-the-notch dental treatments with numerous benefits, including:
- Improve oral function and allow better chewing and speaking
- Enhance the aesthetics of your smile
- Prevent the shifting of adjacent teeth
- Maintain the integrity of your jawbone
- Prevent the bone loss that occurs after losing a tooth.
Additionally, dental implants are highly successful and versatile dental treatments with long-lasting results.
Understanding Gum Disease
What is gum disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is the inflammation and infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth. There are two types of periodontal disease: periodontitis and gingivitis.
Gingivitis is the reversible inflammation of your gums that can go from mild to severe, typically caused by plaque and tartar accumulation.
Periodontitis, on the other hand, is a form of gum disease that can lead to mobility and tooth loss when left untreated. Unlike gingivitis, periodontitis is an irreversible affection of your gums and jawbone, with multiple severe consequences and complex treatment.
Causes and symptoms of gum disease
Gum disease is usually caused by inadequate oral hygiene, smoking, systemic diseases, and genetic factors. However, it is typically the result of plaque and bacteria buildup around your teeth and gums, leading to inflammation.
The most common symptoms of gum disease include:
- Red, swollen, and bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession and exposed roots
- Pus accumulation and metallic taste coming from your gums.
Impact of gum disease on oral health
Gum disease is one of the main causes of tooth loss and bone loss, causing a great impact on your oral health. Moreover, it can complicate multiple dental treatments, including dental implants, as gum health is critical for implant success.
As a result, managing gum disease effectively is vital to maintaining your oral health and ensuring the longevity of your dental treatments.
The Process of Getting Dental Implants with Gum Disease
Initial assessment and treatment of gum disease
Your dental implant journey starts with a comprehensive assessment by a dental professional. This initial consultation involves a detailed examination of your oral cavity to diagnose and address every condition that may hinder your dental implants’ recovery.
If your dentist finds gum disease, it must be treated before proceeding with the implant surgery. Its treatment usually involves dental cleaning, scaling, root planing, some antibiotics, and, in severe cases, surgical interventions.
Preparing the gums for dental implant surgery
With your gum diseases under control, you can prepare for dental implant surgery. This preparation may include cleaning procedures and medication to ensure the gums are free from infection.
Occasionally, your dentist may indicate a bone graft before your implant placement to counteract significant bone loss.
Post-implant care and maintenance for individuals with gum disease
Maintenance and home care are crucial for patients with a history of gum disease. Usually, this includes maintaining excellent oral hygiene, attending regular dental check-ups, and receiving professional cleanings.
Fortunately, good oral care practices prevent the recurrence of gum disease and ensure the longevity of your dental implants. Typically, your dentist indicates a specialized toothbrush, toothpaste, and additional methods to maximize your hygiene routine and prevent complications.
FAQs
How long does it take to treat gum disease before getting implants?
The duration of your treatment varies depending on the severity of the gum disease and your response to the treatment. It can range from a few weeks to several months.
Is Gum Disease Treatment Painful?
No. Most periodontal treatments are either painless or performed under local anesthesia to prevent discomfort.
