Yes, many people with gum disease can still get dental implants, but the gum disease needs to be treated and under control first. Active gum infection can damage the bone and tissue that hold an implant in place, which raises the risk of implant failure. Once your gums are healthy, and any lost bone is rebuilt with grafting if needed, implants can be a safe, long-lasting way to replace missing teeth. At State of the Art Dental Group in Rockville, MD, gum treatment, bone grafting and implant care all happen in one office.
How Does Gum Disease Affect Dental Implants?
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection of the gums and the bone that supports your teeth. It is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults, which is why many people considering implants also have a history of gum problems.
Gum disease can affect implants in three main ways:
- Bone loss. Advanced gum disease breaks down the jawbone. Implants need enough healthy bone to fuse with and stay stable.
- Infection risk. Bacteria from untreated gum disease can attack the tissue around a new implant.
- Peri-implantitis. This is an infection around an implant, similar to gum disease around a natural tooth. If it is not treated, it can cause the implant to loosen or fail.
What Are the Warning Signs of Gum Disease?
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Bad breath that will not go away
- Gums pulling back from your teeth
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pain when chewing
- Pus between your teeth and gums
If you notice any of these, it is a good idea to get your gums checked before planning tooth replacement.
How Do You Get Implants If You Have Gum Disease?
1. Full exam and 3D imaging
Your dentist checks your gum health, measures the pockets around your teeth and uses imaging to see how much bone you have.
2. Treat the gum disease
Treatment depends on how advanced it is. Options may include a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing, antibiotic therapy or other periodontal treatment. The goal is to remove the infection and let the gums heal.
3. Remove failing teeth
Teeth that are too damaged to save are removed, which also clears away a source of infection.
4. Rebuild lost bone
If gum disease has caused bone loss, bone grafting can restore the foundation your implant needs.
5. Place the implants
Once your gums are healthy and the bone is strong, the implants are placed in our office using guided technology. Sedation is available for comfort.
6. Keep up with maintenance
Regular cleanings and checkups help protect your implants and your remaining natural teeth for the long term.
What If I Have Lost Many Teeth to Gum Disease?
If gum disease has caused you to lose most or all of your teeth, full mouth dental implants may be a good fit. A full arch of fixed teeth can be supported by four to eight implants, often using the bone you still have. Implant-supported dentures are another option for a more secure fit than traditional dentures.
How Can I Protect My Implants From Gum Problems?
- Brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush
- Clean around your implants daily with floss, interdental brushes or a water flosser
- Do not smoke, since smoking raises the risk of both gum disease and implant failure
- Manage health conditions like diabetes
- Visit your dentist for regular cleanings and exams
- Call your dentist right away if your gums around an implant bleed, swell or feel sore
Why Choose State of the Art Dental Group?
Dr. Kavish Gurjar was one of 10 students selected for the periodontal honors program at New York University College of Dentistry. He is also a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and a member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. That combination of gum and implant training means your gums, bone and implants are all cared for by the same team, under one roof.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get implants with active gum disease?
Not until it is treated. Placing an implant in infected tissue raises the chance that it will fail.
How long after gum treatment can I get implants?
It depends on how severe the disease was and whether you need bone grafting. Some patients are ready within weeks, and others need a few months of healing.
Can implants get gum disease?
Implants cannot get cavities, but the gums and bone around them can become infected. This is called peri-implantitis, and good home care plus regular checkups help prevent it.
Will I need a bone graft?
Many patients with moderate or advanced gum disease need some bone grafting. Your 3D scan will show whether you need it.
Are implants better than dentures if I have gum disease?
For many patients, yes. Implants help preserve the jawbone, while traditional dentures do not stop bone loss.
Get Your Gums and Smile Back on Track
Gum disease does not have to stand in the way of a confident smile. New patients can call State of the Art Dental Group at (240) 221-7793 or request a consultation online. Our office is at 801 Pleasant Drive, Suite 160, Rockville, MD 20850.
