Reviewed by Dr. Dan Thousand
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Dental implants rely on healthy bone and gum tissue for long-term stability. Gum disease can damage these supporting structures, which may affect whether implant treatment is appropriate. A periodontal evaluation helps determine if infection needs to be treated before implants can be placed.
Table of Contents
Can You Have Dental Implants With Gum Disease?
Active gum disease must be treated before dental implants are placed. Infection in the gums and supporting bone can interfere with healing and increase the risk of implant complications.
After the infection is controlled and the gums and bone have stabilized, many people can still receive dental implants. A periodontal exam determines whether treatment is needed before implant placement.
How Gum Disease Affects Dental Implant Success
Dental implants integrate directly with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. Healthy bone and stable gum tissue are essential for this process to be successful.
When gum disease is present, inflammation and infection can damage the structures that support both natural teeth and dental implants.
Gum disease may increase the risk of implant complications by causing:
- Bone loss that reduces implant stability
- Ongoing inflammation in the surrounding tissues
- Delayed healing after implant surgery
- Infection around the implant, known as peri-implantitis
Peri-implantitis is a condition where bacteria cause inflammation and bone loss around an implant. Without treatment, it can lead to implant failure.
Treating Gum Disease Before Dental Implants
Before dental implants are placed, periodontal treatment may be recommended to control infection and stabilize the gums and bone. Treatment depends on the severity of the disease and the amount of tissue involvement.
Common periodontal therapies may include:
- Scaling and root planing
- Laser periodontal therapy
- Antimicrobial therapy
- Gum grafting for recession
- Bone grafting to rebuild lost bone
These treatments help eliminate infection and create a healthier foundation for dental implant placement. In some cases, additional healing time may be required before implant surgery is scheduled.
The Role of Periodontal Care in Dental Implant Success
Because dental implants depend on healthy gums and bone, periodontal health plays a central role in implant treatment. Periodontists specialize in diagnosing and treating gum disease, making them uniquely qualified to prepare the mouth for long-term implant success.
At Periodontal Associates, Dr. Beckman, Dr. Heller and Dr. Thousand. focus on the health of the supporting structures of the teeth. Their advanced surgical training centers on treating periodontal infection, restoring lost bone and gum tissue, and creating a stable foundation for dental implants.
By addressing gum disease first and rebuilding damaged structures when necessary, they help patients move forward with implant treatment in a way that protects long-term stability.
Periodontist in Aurora, CO
Schedule a consultation for a periodontal evaluation to determine whether dental implants are appropriate and what treatment steps may be recommended first.
To book an appointment at our Aurora location, call (303) 755-4500. To book an appointment at our Centennial location, call (303) 795-5700.
FAQs
Can gum disease cause dental implant failure?
Untreated gum disease can lead to infection and bone loss around dental implants, increasing the risk of implant failure.
How long after gum disease treatment can you get implants?
The timeline varies depending on the severity of the disease and the type of treatment performed. Your periodontist will recommend an appropriate healing period before implant placement.
Are dental implants possible if you previously had gum disease?
Many patients with a history of gum disease can receive dental implants once the infection has been treated and the gums and bone have stabilized.
