Understanding the Relationship Between Gum Disease and Implants
Think of dental implants like building a house—you wouldn’t construct on shaky ground, right? Periodontal disease creates inflammation and infection that weaken the foundation where implants need to integrate. Dr. Samuel Kim often explains to patients that untreated gum disease leads to bone loss, making implant placement much more challenging.
The bacteria causing periodontal disease don’t just disappear when you place an implant. These harmful microorganisms can attack the implant site without proper treatment, leading to peri-implantitis. This infection around implants mirrors gum disease but proves much harder to treat once it develops.
Can You Get Dental Implants With Periodontal Disease? The Treatment Path
Successfully placing implants with existing periodontal disease requires a multi-step approach. Dr. Robert Sharobiem and our team typically recommend treating the gum disease first, then evaluating implant candidacy afterward.
Initial Periodontal Treatment
The first phase focuses on controlling active infection and inflammation. Our periodontics team provides deep cleaning procedures called scaling and root planing. These treatments remove bacterial buildup below the gum line that regular brushing can’t reach.
Some patients need more advanced procedures like gum surgery or laser therapy. Dr. Cheng Miao uses the latest techniques to restore gum health before considering implant placement. This foundation work takes time but proves crucial for implant success.
Bone Evaluation and Grafting
Periodontal disease often destroys the jawbone that supports teeth. Dr. Cheng Miao carefully evaluates bone density and volume using advanced imaging technology. Many patients need bone grafting to rebuild lost bone structure before implant surgery.
Our dental technology allows precise measurement of bone quality and quantity. This detailed planning ensures implants have adequate support for long-term success.
Timeline Considerations for Implants After Periodontal Treatment
Patience becomes your best friend when the question, ‘Can you get dental implants with periodontal disease?’ becomes your question. The healing timeline varies dramatically between patients, depending on disease severity and individual healing capacity.
Most people need several months of periodontal healing before considering implants. Dr. Seong Lee, our endodontic specialist, sometimes coordinates with the team when root canal complications intersect with periodontal issues. This collaborative approach ensures comprehensive care throughout your treatment journey.
Active periodontal disease must show complete resolution before implant surgery. Regular monitoring appointments track your progress and determine optimal timing for the next treatment phase.
Success Rates and Long-term Outcomes
Research shows that properly treated periodontal patients can achieve implant success rates comparable to those without a history of gum disease. The key lies in meticulous treatment sequencing and ongoing maintenance after implant placement.
Dental implants in previously diseased sites require extra attention to oral hygiene and professional maintenance. Regular cleanings become even more critical for preventing peri-implantitis development around your new implants.
Factors That Influence Your Candidacy
Several factors beyond periodontal disease affect implant candidacy:
- Smoking status significantly impacts healing and success rates
- Diabetes management affects tissue healing and infection risk
- Medications like bisphosphonates can complicate healing
- Overall oral hygiene habits predict long-term success
- Bone density and volume after disease treatment
Alternative Options When Implants Aren’t Possible
Sometimes, periodontal disease causes too much bone loss for successful implant placement. Our team explores alternative solutions like removable dentures or fixed bridges in these situations. Every patient deserves functional teeth, even when implants aren’t feasible.
Maintaining Your Investment
Once you receive implants after periodontal treatment, maintenance becomes paramount. The bacterial infections that caused your original gum disease can attack implant sites. Regular professional cleanings, excellent home care, and prompt treatment of any inflammation protect your investment.
Your implant success depends heavily on preventing bacterial recolonization around the implant sites. This ongoing commitment to oral health ensures your implants serve you well for decades.
Take the Next Step Toward Your New Smile
Can you get dental implants with periodontal disease? Absolutely, with proper treatment and planning. Our experienced team at Apple Valley Dental guides patients through this complex daily process, turning damaged smiles into confident ones.
Don’t let periodontal disease keep you from exploring implant options. Contact our office today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation. We’ll assess your situation and create a personalized treatment plan that returns you to confidently smiling.