Losing teeth because of gum disease can leave you feeling embarrassed and frustrated. You will always wonder whether your teeth are too bad to be restored, especially when you hear implants might not be an option.
It’s daunting to consider your smile unfinished. But here’s the truth: although gum disease makes it difficult, it doesn’t break your dreams. If you’re willing to push through treatment and recover, dental implants near you might still be possible. With a solid plan, your gums will heal, and your smile can be rebuilt on a healthier foundation.
Why Gum Health Matters for Implants?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, harms more than just your gums; it damages the bone that holds your teeth in place. Since dental implants need strong bone to stay secure, untreated gum disease increases the chance of implant failure. That’s why keeping your gums stronger before getting the treatment becomes important.
If you’re thinking about Dental Implants in Calgary, understanding this relationship is critical. Reversing gum disease first creates the foundation needed for long-term success.
Can You Still Get Implants After Gum Disease?
Yes, but only after the disease is brought under control. If left untreated, the infection continues to destroy gum and bone tissue. However, with proper treatment, your mouth can be prepared for implants, even if damage has already occurred.
Implants for severe gum disease are commonly placed once the infection is treated and the supporting structures are rebuilt. Getting proper treatment early on with the right advice from a dentist can make things easier.
What Does Treatment Before Implants Look Like?
Before placing implants, your dentist will thoroughly evaluate the condition of your gums and jawbone. If signs of gum disease are present, the treatment might include:
- Deep cleaning (scaling and root planning)
- Antibacterial rinses or antibiotics
- Gum surgery for infected tissue
- Bone grafting for lost bone volume
This phase is essential. Skipping it increases the risk of implant complications later.
Are There Special Implant Options for Gum Disease Cases?
Yes. Patients with advanced gum and bone loss aren’t limited to traditional implants. Innovative techniques have made implants more accessible.
A common solution is all on-4 dental implants gum disease patients often qualify for. In this method, four strategically placed implants are used to support a full arch of teeth, as it works well even if the jawbone is limited and eliminates the need for grafting.
For extreme cases, alternative anchoring methods like zygomatic implants may also be considered.
Does Bone Loss Disqualify You?
Not necessarily. Bone loss due to gum disease is a problem, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t have implants. If the bone is too thin, it can be augmented with bone grafting. Once the bone is healed and can support, safe implants can then be placed.
Consulting a dentist near you who is skilled in restorative complexity can help in thoroughly evaluating and providing with best solutions for healing.
How to Care for Implants After Gum Disease
Even after a smooth implant installation, upkeep is required. Gum disease might come back if your oral health is poor.
Here’s how to protect your investment:
- Brush and floss regularly, particularly around the implants
- Use water flossers or interdental brushes to thoroughly clean
- Don’t smoke, as it raises the risk of implant failure
- Get your teeth cleaned and checked by your dentist periodically
If gums were an issue to begin with, continued care prevents them from becoming a problem again.
Who is a Candidate for Implants Post-Gum Disease?
You might still qualify for a dental implant if you:
- Have no active gum infection
- Are in good health and not smokers
- Can maintain good oral hygiene
- Are willing to adhere to a long-term care plan
Every case is different, so an evaluation must be done in detail. Implants may still be an option if the appropriate steps are taken promptly.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
Gum disease is progressive. The longer you delay treatment, the more your bone deteriorates and the fewer options you may have for implants. Early action gives you the best shot at saving your smile.
Tooth loss also causes functional problems like bite misalignment, speech issues, and shrinking facial structure. Restoring your mouth as soon as possible is not just about your looks, but it’s about your health.
Take Control of Your Oral Health
Dental implants after gum disease are not impossible, but they demand good planning, dedication, and professional attention. After the infection has been treated and the right implant solution has been chosen, you can again bite, smile, and speak without discomfort or embarrassment.
Rebuild Your Smile With Confidence
Your smile is worth a second chance. Contact us today at Le Family Dental and learn whether implants can be done for you.