Are you assuming getting dental implants to replace tooth loss or to enhance the build of your smile but are worried about gum disease getting in the way?
It is an understandable concern. However, with some preparation and professional advice, it is possible for people who do have gum disease to still get dental implants.
With technical advances, there are now techniques to ensure that your investment in a beautiful new smile that will endure for years is protected, while also helping to lower the dangers connected with this treatment.
Keep reading as we dive into the details of what you need to be aware of before deciding whether dental implants are right for you if you suffer from gum disease!
Dental implants are basically unnatural tooth roots that provide a permanent base for fixed, reserved teeth. Dental implants are a well-liked and reliable long-term treatment for patients with missing teeth, failing teeth, or persistent dental issues when compared to dentures, bridges, and crowns.
They are starting to set a new standard for tooth reserve since they feel, fit, and operate just like real teeth. Now that you have a brief understanding of what dental implants are, let's move on to how gum disease can impact the process of getting these implants.
More and more individuals than ever are able to get dental implants, but there are some factors you need to consider before getting this treatment if you have gum disease.
Here are some of the ways gum disease can affect the success of dental implants:
Implants need a strong foundation: Dental implant treatments are placed into the jawbone, which must be healthy and have enough bone density to support them. When gum disease occurs it may direct to bone loss, and weaken the foundation for dental implants.
Increased risk of infection: If you already have gum disease, there is a higher chance of infection around the implant site. This can affect the healing process and potentially cause implant failure.
Poor healing: Periodontal disease can also affect the body's ability to heal properly, making it more difficult for implants to integrate with the jawbone. This can result in loose or failed implants.
Higher risk of complications: Patients with gum disease may experience more complications during and after implant surgery, such as bleeding, discomfort, and delayed healing.
Don't lose hope if you're suffering from gum disease. Here, we'll discuss how gum disease treatments can be managed before going for implant surgery.
We'll explain the various treatment options that could help improve the health of your gums and potentially make you a good candidate for dental implant surgery.
A complete cleaning procedure known as scaling and root planing is often the first line of defence against gum disease. It involves clearing plaque and tartar from below the gumline, followed by smoothing out rough spots on the tooth roots to stop bacteria buildup.
This procedure can help improve the health of your gums and reduce inflammation, making the mouth a more suitable environment for dental implants.
Antibiotics may occasionally be recommended to assist your body in fighting off the germs causing gum disease. These can come in various forms, such as a mouth rinse, gel, or even an oral tablet.
Remember to follow your dentist's recommendations and finish your antibiotics, even if your symptoms improve. This will ensure that all dangerous germs have been eliminated, lowering the possibility of developing new infections.
This is a surgical procedure where new bone or a bone-like material is added to the area of the jawbone that holds your teeth. The bone graft helps to stimulate healing and bone regrowth, providing a stronger foundation for your implants.
It's a bit like repairing a damaged wall before putting up a new shelf. Post-surgery, a healing period is crucial for the graft to integrate successfully with your existing bone. Once healed, your gums and jawbone should be healthier and stronger, potentially ready for those shiny new dental implants!
To prolong implant life, you must practise good dental hygiene after surgery. The below tips may help you in maintaining your oral health and preserving your implant investment.
Brush and floss regularly: This is essential in removing plaque and bacteria buildup that can lead to gum disease. Make sure to use a soft-bristled brush and be gentle around the implant area.
Utilise an antibacterial mouthwash: Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can aid in the reduction of inflammation, healing, and infection prevention.
Attend regular check-ups: Regular dental visits are crucial for maintaining the health of your gums and implants. Your dentist can identify any issues before on and give the necessary treatment.
Quit smoking: Increasing gum tissue disease risk can influence dental implant success. Quitting is beneficial not only for your oral health but also for your overall health.
Avoid brushing aggressively: Brushing too hard can irritate your gums and cause them to recede, making the implant more susceptible to infection.
Now that we've tackled gum disease and learned how to care for our implants post-battle, it's time to discuss the lifespan of dental implants after the treat gum disease. So, how long can these new additions to your mouth last?
With the right maintenance, dental implants can endure for 25 or more years, possibly even a lifetime! They're like the superhero of dental solutions, standing firm and strong no matter what life throws at them.
But remember, just like any hero, they also need a little care. Routine check-ups with your dentist and good oral hygiene habits are your secret weapons to ensure that your dental implants live a long and healthy life, serving your smile the way it deserves. So, don't let gum disease scare you away from getting dental implants.
Absolutely! Dental implants are developed to feel, function, and, most importantly, look just like your natural teeth. They're true masters of disguise. Even after battling periodontal disease, your implants can correspond seamlessly with the rest of your teeth, giving off that natural vibe.
They can be colour-matched to your current teeth, ensuring that your smile remains consistent and convincing. The main goal is to give you a healthier smile you would be happy to show off.
So, while gum disease might be a pesky villain, it doesn't stand a chance against the power of dental implants. However, with the right care and attention, you can keep your implants looking as natural and beautiful as ever, triumphing over gum disease once and for all.
Gum disease can indeed be a speed bump on your journey towards getting dental implants. However, it’s definitely not a dead end. With the right treatment and care, gum disease can be managed effectively, paving the way for successful implant surgery.
Procedures like scaling, root planing, antibiotics, and bone grafting can help restore your healthy gums, providing a strong foundation for your new implants. Keep in mind that you can greatly extend the life and health of your implants by practising good oral hygiene and listening to your dentist's recommendations after implant procedure.
Like a trusty sidekick, they can stick around for a good 25 years or even a lifetime with the right care. Furthermore, dental implants are designed to blend right in, mirroring the look and feel of your natural teeth, even after tackling gum disease.
So don't let gum disease discourage you. With the right care and actions, you can even enjoy the benefits of dental implants and continue flashing that beautiful, confident and healthier smile. After all, every good superhero story involves overcoming a little adversity, doesn’t it?
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