Do you suffer from gum disease and tooth loss? Gum disease and missing teeth can go hand-in-hand if the disease advances and remains untreated. But just because you have gum disease doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t replace missing teeth with dental implants in Lakeland, FL.
Because gum disease can lead to tooth mobility and loss, many people wonder if they’re good candidates for dental implants to replace their missing teeth. Here are some essential things you need to know about tooth implants and periodontal disease.
Gum Disease Treatment
Before dental implant surgery, we must treat a patient’s gum disease. Periodontitis can shrink the jawbone and result in gum recession, compromising the implant’s stability and function.
If you’ve previously suffered from advanced periodontal disease, you may have lost bone density in the jaw through a process called resorption. Your dentist can assess your oral health, including your jawbone, to determine if you need a bone graft to provide a stable foundation for dental implants.
Many patients with advanced gum disease get bone grafts to stabilize their implants properly, so there’s still hope!
Dental Implants Need Stability
Dental implants require healthy gums and jawbones to hold the implant in place. However, patients with gum disease may struggle with this treatment due to the higher risk of bone deterioration and implant failure. However, it’s not impossible to have dental implants and gum disease, though it will require the active effort of you and your dentist to ensure its continued success.
Tips to Maintain Healthy Teeth and Gums
You can still develop gum disease after getting a dental implant, ultimately resulting in implant failure. So, it’s crucial to practice exceptional oral hygiene and control your gum disease by:
- Brushing at least twice daily
- Flossing at least once daily
- Reduce individual risk for gum disease progression
- Visit your dentist for routine dental exams and teeth cleanings
Be sure to stay vigilant and notify your dentist of any changes in your oral health and stay consistent with your oral hygiene. With an unwavering dedication to your dental health and your dentist’s continued clinical support, you can enjoy a healthier smile for many years to come.
Schedule a Consultation at Our Dentist Office in Lakeland, FL
Do you have missing teeth and need a permanent replacement solution? Dr. Vernon Smith is a skilled and experienced implant dentist in Lakeland, FL, who can help treat your gum disease and provide a reliable tooth replacement option. Please call us today at (863) 858-3891 to learn more about dental implants or schedule your consultation.