Can You Get Dental Implants if You Have Gum Disease?
Dental implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. They offer unmatched stability, durability, and natural-looking results. However, if you have gum disease also known as periodontal disease you might wonder if you’re eligible for this transformative procedure.
At Mellert Dental Associates in Torrance, CA, we understand that every smile is unique. Our expert team, led by Dr. Mellert, Dr. Houck, and Dr. Brown, is here to help you make informed decisions about your oral health and the possibility of restoring your smile with dental implants.
In this guide, we’ll explore the relationship between gum disease and dental implants and what steps you may need to take before becoming a candidate.
Understanding Gum Disease and Its Impact
Gum disease, or periodontitis, is a serious infection that affects the gums and jawbone. Left untreated, it can lead to:
- Bleeding and swollen gums
- Tooth mobility or tooth loss
- Bone loss in the jaw
- Overall, poor oral health
The jawbone and gums provide critical support for dental implants. Without healthy bone and tissue, implant posts cannot fuse properly to the jaw through osseointegration. This means that active gum disease can significantly reduce the chances of successful dental implant placement.
Can You Get Dental Implants with Gum Disease?
The short answer is: not while gum disease is active.
Placing implants in infected gum tissue can result in:
- Poor healing
- Implant failure or rejection
- Spread of infection
Treating Gum Disease Before Implants
At Mellert Dental Associates, your journey to a healthy smile begins with comprehensive periodontal care. Our experienced team offers:
- Deep cleanings and scaling/root planing
- Laser gum therapy
- Periodontal maintenance programs
Once the gum disease is controlled and your mouth is healthy, your dentist will evaluate bone health to see if implants are possible. In cases where bone loss has occurred, a bone graft or other regenerative procedure may be recommended to restore adequate support.
Bone Grafting to Prepare for Implants
If gum disease has caused significant bone loss, you may need bone grafting to rebuild the jaw. This procedure involves adding bone material to areas where bone density has diminished, ensuring a strong foundation for implants.
Bone grafts are a routine part of implant preparation and can make implants possible even in patients who previously would not have been candidates.
Benefits of Choosing Mellert Dental Associates for Dental Implants
At Mellert Dental Associates, serving Torrance and nearby communities, we offer a full spectrum of implant and periodontal services under one roof. Patients benefit from:
- Advanced diagnostic tools: Including digital X-rays and 3D scans to assess bone and gum health
- Customized treatment plans: Tailored to your unique oral health needs
- State-of-the-art implant procedures: Using trusted techniques for long-lasting results
- Compassionate, patient-first care: We work at your pace and prioritize comfort every step of the way
With decades of combined expertise, our doctors specialize in treating gum disease and providing implants, offering a seamless experience from start to finish.
How to Maintain Healthy Gums After Implant Placement
Once your implants are in place, maintaining healthy gums is essential to ensure long-term success. At Mellert Dental Associates, we educate our patients on how to care for their new smiles, which includes:
- Brushing twice daily with a soft toothbrush
- Flossing or using interdental brushes to clean around implants
- Regular dental checkups and cleanings
- Avoiding smoking, which can increase the risk of implant failure
- Following personalized aftercare instructions from your dentist
Dental implants can last decades or even a lifetime with excellent oral hygiene and regular professional care.
How to Maintain Healthy Gums After Implant Placement
Once your implants are in place, maintaining healthy gums is essential to ensure long-term success. At Mellert Dental Associates, we educate our patients on how to care for their new smiles, which includes:
- Brushing twice daily with a soft toothbrush
- Flossing or using interdental brushes to clean around implants
- Regular dental checkups and cleanings
- Avoiding smoking, which can increase the risk of implant failure
- Following personalized aftercare instructions from your dentist
Dental implants can last decades or even a lifetime with excellent oral hygiene and regular professional care.
Dental Implants and Gum Disease: The Bottom Line
If you have active gum disease, you must undergo treatment before dental implants are placed. However, once the infection is resolved and your gums are healthy, you may still be an excellent implant candidate.
At Mellert Dental Associates in Torrance, we are committed to creating personalized plans to help patients achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. From treating periodontal disease to expertly placing implants, our team will be by your side every step.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Are dental implants right for you despite a history of gum disease? Let our caring team at Mellert Dental Associates help you explore your options. We offer advanced technology, customized care, and a supportive environment to make your journey stress-free.
Serving Torrance and surrounding areas, we are passionate about transforming smiles and improving lives.
Contact us today at (310) 543-1234 or visit our Torrance clinic to book your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.
FAQs
Can I get dental implants if I have gum disease?
Not while the disease is active. However, after proper treatment and healing, many patients with a history of gum disease can become candidates for implants.
What happens if I get implants without treating gum disease?
Untreated gum disease can cause implant failure, as infection and bone loss prevent the implant from integrating properly.
Will I need a bone graft before getting implants if I had gum disease?
In many cases, yes. Bone grafting helps restore lost bone structure and ensures a stable foundation for the implant.
How long after gum disease treatment can I get implants?
Your dentist will monitor your healing, but once your gums are healthy and stable, you may proceed with implant placement, typically after a few months.
How do I keep my gums healthy after implants?
Brush and floss daily, avoid tobacco use, attend regular dental checkups, and follow any maintenance recommendations from your dental care team.
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Mellert Dental Associates in Torrance, CA, is a trusted dental practice offering comprehensive care for the whole family. With a commitment to excellence, we provide a wide range of services, from preventive and cosmetic dentistry to advanced restorative treatments. Our experienced team uses the latest technology to deliver personalized care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Whether you’re looking for routine cleanings, teeth whitening, dental implants, or more, Mellert Dental Associates is dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. Visit us in Torrance for compassionate and expert dental care you can rely on.
