Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a severe gum infection caused by bacteria-filled plaque building up or sticking on the gumline. Usually, common causes of gum disease can be due to failure to practice good oral hygiene; however, other causes can include genetics, smoking, illness such as cancer, and hormonal changes.
A dental implant is a fitment that we place into the jawbone surgically and can fuse with the existing bone over a few months. A dental implant serves as a replacement tooth for missing teeth. Dental implants are close to natural teeth in appearance, stand on their own, and do not affect the surrounding teeth.
HOW DOES THE PERIODONTAL DISEASE AFFECT DENTAL IMPLANTS?
One cannot get a dental implant if one has periodontal disease. You need solid and healthy gum to get dental implants. For us to successfully perform a dental implant procedure, your gum tissue must surround your implant, and your jawbone should be wide enough and thick to support the implant safely. Usually, gum disease weakens and dissolves gum tissue and bone, and even after treatment, your jawbone and gum tissue may not be strong enough to support implants. After periodontal treatment, you will need to undergo a bone or tissue graft procedure and give them enough time to heal before getting a dental implant.
CAN I GET PERIODONTAL DISEASE WHILE HAVING DENTAL IMPLANTS
You can still get gum disease while having implants, which is why we recommend that you properly care for the implants to prevent gum disease from occurring. We advise you to brush your teeth and implants at least twice a day, ensure you floss daily, visit us for regular implant cleaning and check-up, and in case of any signs of gum disease, feel free to call our offices immediately for instant treatment.