The relationship between gum disease and dental implants is complex. If left untreated, gum disease can evolve and lead to tooth loss. You also need healthy gums to be a viable candidate for dental implants.
So, the answer to the question is that no, you can't get dental implants if you suffer from gum disease. But, how exactly does this condition affect the viability of implants, and, more importantly, what can you do about it?
How Will Gum Disease Affect Your Implant?
A dental implant will act like a natural tooth. The dentist will insert a metal post into your jawbone and wait for up to six months for the site to heal. Osseointegration also happens during that period, a process where the metal post fusses with the jaw bone.
While dental implants are generally effective, a few things can affect their success rate. Gum disease is one of them and for two very important reasons.
Firstly, for the metal post to fuse with the jaw bone, it needs sufficient mass to support it. When gum disease gets to its advanced stage, known as periodontal disease, it affects the jawbone, causing teeth to become loose and eventually fall out. The same could happen with your implant.
Secondly, dental implants also need healthy surrounding tissue to support the abutment and crown. If your gums are inflamed, then your implant will not get enough support.
What Can I Do About It?
If you have gum disease but would like to restore a missing tooth, then you will be happy to learn that implants are not out of the question for you. You can still get them, but you will have to address the gum disease first.
The treatment will depend on the severity of your condition. If your case of gum disease is only mild or moderate, professional dental cleanings, strict oral hygiene, and a lifestyle change (no more smoking, for example,) might be enough to make you a suitable candidate for dental implants.
If the disease has advanced and you are now dealing with periodontal disease and don't have sufficient bone mass for an implant, then the dentist may suggest a bone or/and gum graft.
A bone graft will use transplanted bone tissue to create enough support for an implant. A gum graft will place new tissue where insufficient or no gum tissue exists.
Wondering If You Can Get Implants? Call Us!
Do you have gum disease and are worried that it may affect your plan of getting a dental implant? At Bow Tie Dentist, our Palm Harbor dentist can help you!
We have the expertise, knowledge, and tools to offer you the right dental treatment so that you can enjoy the best results. Our goal is to give you a healthy and lasting smile and we will not stop until we find a suitable treatment that fits your needs.
For more information, contact us now to book your appointment.