Dental Implants and Periodontal Disease
Dental implants and periodontal disease
Dental implants have greatly improved the lives of many patients. In the past, patients who lost their teeth had limited options. Today, dental implants allow them to live without the potential embarrassment and hassle typically associated with dentures.
At Sacramento Periodontics, we believe in setting up our patients for long-term success. As a result, it is a mistake to think of dental implants as a quick fix for dental problems. Periodontal disease, if left untreated and uncontrolled, will eventually ensure that dental implants fail, leaving patients with few good options.
Dental implants and periodontal disease
As you may know, periodontal disease is an infection of the gum tissue. If left untreated for too long, it can cause a host of problems, including gum recession, bone decay, and tooth loss. Periodontal disease attacks the bone and gum fibers that hold the teeth in place. Accordingly, gum disease can cause dental implant failure in the same way that it causes tooth failure.
Dental implants are placed in the jawbone and act as artificial tooth roots. While they are not the same material or shape as natural tooth roots, they perform the same function. Implants require a strong foundation to function properly; without it, they will fail.
The link between periodontal disease and dental implant failure becomes apparent when you consider the following:
• Inflation: Periodontal disease causes chronic inflammation in the gum tissue, weakening the connective tissue that stabilizes the teeth.
• Gum recession: If gum disease is left untreated, the gum tissue decays and eventually recedes, revealing the roots of the teeth.
• Bone loss: Like the gum tissue, the jawbone decays when exposed to periodontal disease for an extended period of time.
Many scientific studies have documented the link between periodontal disease and dental implant failure. Because of this, we recommend treating your existing periodontal disease before considering dental implants. Otherwise, you risk dental implant failure and substantial financial loss.
Prioritize periodontal disease treatment before dental implant placement
It would be nice if dental implants could solve all dental problems; unfortunately that is rarely the case. To achieve the best possible smile, we recommend prioritizing periodontal disease treatment.
Should you decide to prioritize periodontal treatment, you can expect the following:
• Consultation: Our periodontist will provide a thorough examination and recommend the best course of action for your periodontal condition.
• Treatment: We offer a wide range of periodontal treatments. The treatment will be selected based on your specific condition and preferences. The periodontist who examined you will also perform the treatment.
• Maintenance: Following periodontal treatment, we recommend maintaining your gum health with regular cleanings. Dental implants can be scheduled prior to starting your maintenance routine.
Let’s get started
If you are interested in pursuing dental implants, contact us today. We will help you decide if you should schedule your implants or existing gum problems first.