If you have missing teeth, dental implants are a very popular and effective restoration procedure. The procedure helps you regain a full smile, both in terms of aesthetics and function.
However, dental implants might not be a good solution for everyone. If you are dealing with gum disease, you will not be cleared for your surgery until after you’ve treated the gum disease. Keep reading to find out exactly why:
Dental implants are made from 3 different elements:
The implant itself is shaped like a screw, and is the part that is placed into the jaw to replace your missing tooth’s root. Once you heal from this surgery (which can take 3-6 months), you can then receive the abutment and crown, effectively completing the procedure.
Dental implants require healthy gum and jaw tissue to be successful. Because gum disease attacks these tissues, implants cannot be placed unless the gum disease is addressed.
Gum disease is a condition that affects the health of the gums. It’s caused by plaque and tartar buildup which allow unwanted bacteria to accumulate on the teeth, near the gum line. Over time, this can lead to inflammation and even infection as the bacteria multiply.
Dental implants need healthy and strong gum and bone tissue. Gum disease essentially ends up dissolving both the gums and the bone to the point where a dental implant may not have enough tissue left to be inserted properly.
Gum disease can affect a natural tooth the same way it does a dental implant. For instance, if you develop gum disease after getting an implant, you may start to notice both your implant and natural teeth loosen, as the tissues that support them diminish.
If you have gum disease, you will need to be treated for it before you can get cleared for implant surgery. First, the dentist needs to remove the plaque and tartar buildup, and any bacteria that could be found just underneath the gum line. You may also be given antibiotics to help fight the infection.
Once you’re healed, the dentist will analyze if you have enough gum and bone tissue left to support an implant. If not, you may be able to get a bone graft and gum graft to restore the area, but this will delay your implant surgery for another few months.
If you’re dealing with gum disease and want to get dental implants, Dr. Anna Paholiouk can help establish the right treatment plan that can restore your smile.
To get started, book an appointment at Monarch Dental Arts online.
For more information, call us at (949) 392-4222.