Dental implants are widely recognized as the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. They provide a natural appearance, feel, and function, restoring patients’ confidence in their smiles. However, if you have gum disease, you might wonder if dental implants are a good option. At North Hill Dental in Richmond Hill, Ontario,
we recognize that many patients are concerned about their gum disease and dental implants and whether they can receive them. In this article, we’ll look at the link between gum disease and dental implants, discuss what needs to be done to make implants possible, and explain why proper care is critical for long-term results.
Understanding Gum Disease and Its Impact on Oral Health
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common bacterial infection that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It develops when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, accumulates on the teeth and gums, causing inflammation. The disease progresses in stages:
- Gingivitis: The earliest and mildest form, characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed during brushing.
- Periodontitis: An advanced stage in which the infection spreads beneath the gum line, causing gum recession, bone loss, and possible tooth loss.
Gum disease affects more than just your natural teeth. Because it deteriorates the gums and underlying bone, it significantly impacts the success of dental procedures like implants. The jawbone provides the critical support dental implants require to integrate securely and function properly. It can weaken this foundation, jeopardizing implant stability.
Why Gum Disease Matters When Considering Dental Implants
Discussing gum disease and dental implants, for implants to succeed, there must be a healthy and sufficient amount of bone and gum tissue at the implant site. Gum disease threatens this by causing:
- Bone Loss: The bacteria that cause gum disease can destroy the jawbone, which holds teeth in place. Without adequate bone density, implants may not have a strong base.
- Gum Inflammation and Infection: Active infection can lead to complications during and after implant surgery, including implant failure.
- Poor Healing Potential: Inflamed or damaged gum tissue may not heal properly after implant placement, lowering the chances of successful osseointegration — the process by which the implant fuses with the bone.
Because of these factors, untreated or poorly managed gum disease is frequently considered a contraindication to immediate dental implant placement.
Gum Disease and Dental Implants: Can You Have Them?
The short answer is yes, but with essential conditions. Gum disease does not automatically exclude you from receiving dental implants, but it must be properly treated and managed before implant surgery.
How North Hill Dental Addresses Gum Disease and Dental Implants for Patients
At North Hill Dental, we prioritize your overall oral health. We use a careful, step-by-step procedure to ensure that implants are placed safely and successfully, even if you have gum disease.
Step 1: Comprehensive Gum Disease Evaluation and Treatment
The first step is to thoroughly examine your gum disease, including clinical measurements and X-rays. Depending on the findings, your treatment plan might include:
- Professional Cleanings: Removing plaque and tartar buildup to reduce inflammation.
- Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning): This procedure involves cleaning below the gum line to remove bacteria and smooth the root surfaces, allowing the gums to reattach to the teeth.
- Antibiotic Therapy: Using topical or oral antibiotics to eliminate infection.
- Surgical Treatments: Flap surgery or gum grafts may be needed to restore gum and bone health in severe cases.
The goal is to control and eliminate the infection while reducing inflammation and restoring gum and bone health.
Step 2: Bone Grafting or Regeneration (If Needed)
If gum disease has caused bone loss, we may recommend bone grafting procedures to rebuild and strengthen the jawbone. Bone grafting involves placing bone material in deficient areas to stimulate new bone growth and provide a solid implant foundation.
Step 3: Healing and Monitoring
A healing period is essential after gum disease treatment and any necessary bone grafting. This stabilizes your gums and bone and ensures the infection has cleared. Your dentist will monitor your progress closely during this time.
Step 4: Customized Implant Planning and Placement
Once your gums and bone are healthy, North Hill Dental will design a personalized implant plan. We use advanced imaging and guided techniques to place implants precisely for optimal function and appearance.
Step 5: Ongoing Maintenance and Care
Even after implant placement, good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are critical to preventing the recurrence of gum disease around implants (also known as peri-implantitis), which can lead to implant failure.
Why You Should Treat Gum Disease Before Getting Implants
Ignoring gum disease before implant surgery can lead to serious complications, including:
- Implant Failure: Infection and inflammation weaken the bone and tissue supporting the implant.
- Poor Aesthetic Results: Gum recession or bone loss can impact the appearance of the implant crown.
- Additional Costs and Procedures: Failed implants may require removal and replacement, increasing treatment time and expense.
Treating gum disease thoroughly increases the chances of a successful implant and a healthy, long-lasting smile.
Gum Disease and Dental Implants: What if I Have Had Gum Disease in the Past?
Dental implants are often an option if you have a history of gum disease but are currently in good oral health. Your dentist will evaluate the stability of your gums and bone and advise you on any preventive measures to protect your implants.
Maintaining Gum Health After Dental Implants
Dental implants need the same care as natural teeth. Without proper cleaning and checkups, plaque and bacteria can accumulate around implants, resulting in peri-implantitis. Symptoms include redness, swelling, bleeding, and eventually bone loss around the implant.
Regular professional cleanings, daily brushing and flossing, and lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking all play essential roles in preserving natural gums and implants.
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
If you have gum disease and are interested in dental implants, North Hill Dental in Richmond Hill, Ontario, can help. Our experienced team will carefully assess your oral health, provide expert treatment, and walk you through achieving a beautiful, healthy smile with dental implants.
Contact North Hill Dental today or visit North Hill Dental to schedule your consultation and start your journey toward lasting dental health.
