Dental implants are an excellent solution for replacing missing teeth. They permanently replace lost teeth and improve your oral health by preserving the bones that support teeth. The effectiveness of this revolutionary procedure relies heavily on the health of your gums and the underlying bone. These tissues form the foundation for the titanium implant post and support the connecting abutment and crown.
Unfortunately, people with periodontal disease are not candidates for dental implants and must have their gum health issues addressed before implant surgery. If you are considering dental implants and gum disease is preventing you from benefiting from this procedure, there are several treatments available to repair your gum tissue and improve your oral health before surgery. Schedule a free consultation with a dentist to determine if you’re a candidate for implants.
What is Gum Disease?
Poor oral hygiene can cause plaque and tartar to build up along the gum line, irritating the periodontal tissue. This can lead to inflammation, red gums, bleeding, and gum recession, indicative of gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease. However, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease if left untreated.
Periodontitis results from the infected, inflamed gum tissue and can cause the erosion of the underlying bone. This condition can ultimately cause the connective tissue holding the tooth in place to weaken, leading to tooth loss.
Dental Implants & Gum Disease
Dental implants consist of three parts: the metal post, the abutment, and the restoration, typically a crown, bridge, or denture. During the surgery, the post must be embedded in the jawbone and left to heal so the titanium screw can fuse with the gum and bone tissue to form a stable base for the abutment and crown.
If you suffer from advanced gum disease, the bone may not have enough density to support the post, and infected gum tissue could lead to post-surgical complications such as peri-implantitis and implant rejection.
If your dentist identifies the signs of gum disease during the initial free consultation for dental implants, they will recommend that you undergo treatment to repair the gum tissue and prevent bone deterioration.
Treatment for Gum Disease
There are several effective procedures for treating gum disease before dental implant surgery. Dental cleaning and plaque removal can help prevent mild gum disease from progressing. Techniques such as scaling remove plaque and tartar below the gum line, which can’t be reached with brushing and flossing alone.
If you have advanced gum disease and experience gum recession, you may need pocket reduction surgery to remove the bacteria from the deep pockets near the tooth root and receive soft tissue grafts to regenerate your gums. Bone grafts can help improve your bone density if you have suffered bone erosion and revitalise your oral health, increasing your suitability for dental implants.
Preventing Gum Disease After Implant Surgery
After receiving dental implants, oral health care is necessary to prevent gum disease and implant-related problems such as peri-implantitis.
Brushing and flossing twice per day is the most effective way to prevent disease. Using a soft-bristled or nylon brush is less abrasive on gums and teeth.
Alcohol and tobacco products are particularly harmful to implants and healing gums within six months of an implant procedure. They slow down recovery and promote bacteria growth in the gums, which could lead to periodontal infection.
It’s also essential to have regular checkups with your dentist, as well as professional cleanings, twice a year. Your hygienist can perform a level of cleaning that you can’t get with your toothbrush. They can also spot early signs of gum disease.
Visit DDII For State-of-the-Art Dental Implants
At Digital Dental Implant Institute, we take pride in providing outstanding treatment and care to our patients. We use the latest in technology and innovative equipment to offer fast and safe treatment. Patient comfort is our priority, whether you’re having a checkup or an implant procedure.
If you are concerned about dental implants and gum disease affecting your eligibility, contact our practice today on (02) 4058 2836 for a free consultation.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
