Periodontal disease is an infection of the gum tissues that destroy the structures that support teeth, including the bone and ligaments. It affects nearly half of all adults in some form, from mild to severe cases. Left untreated, it can cause tooth loss, jawbone damage, and even systemic health issues. Dental implants are a popular choice for replacing missing teeth due to periodontal disease. But are they safe or feasible if you’re suffering from this condition? In this blog post, we will explore the realities of dental implants when suffering from periodontal disease and what you need to be aware of before making a decision.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a serious infection of the gums and bones that support the teeth. It is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. Plaque produces toxins that damage and destroy the tissues and bones that support the teeth. If not treated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss.
The best way to prevent periodontal disease is to brush and floss your teeth every day and see your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. If you have periodontal disease, your dentist will work with you to develop a treatment plan that may include scaling and root planing (a deep cleaning), antibiotics, or surgery.
The Different Types of Periodontal Disease
There are four different types of periodontal disease: gingivitis, periodontitis, aggressive periodontitis, and chronic periodontitis.
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. The gums become red, swollen, and bleed easily. Gingivitis is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. Plaque can harden into tartar (calculus), which can irritate the gums and cause them to pull away from the teeth. This can lead to pockets forming between the teeth and gums, where more bacteria can grow.
Periodontitis is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. The main symptom of periodontitis is bleeding gums when you brush or floss your teeth. Periodontitis can also cause your gums to recede (pull away) from your teeth, making them look longer than usual. If not treated, periodontitis can destroy the bones that support your teeth and eventually lead to tooth loss.
Aggressive periodontitis is a form of periodontitis that progresses quickly and causes extensive damage to the gum tissue and bone that support the teeth. Aggressive periodontitis most often occurs in teens or young adults but can occur at any age. It tends to run in families, so genetic factors may play a role in its development.
Chronic periodontitis is a form of periodontitis that develops slowly over
How Does the Periodontal Disease Affect Dental Implants?
Those suffering from periodontal disease may be wondering if they can still get dental implants. The short answer is yes, but it’s important to know how the two conditions will affect each other before making a decision.
Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and bone surrounding the teeth. It is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. Plaque hardens into tartar (calculus), which can only be removed by a professional cleaning. If not removed, tartar will continue to build up and cause the gums to become inflamed and bleed easily. This inflammation is called gingivitis, and if left untreated, can progress into periodontitis. Periodontitis destroys the gum tissue and bone around the teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss.
Dental implants are artificial root devices placed in the jawbone to hold replacement teeth in place. They are an option for those who have lost one or more teeth due to injury or disease. The success of dental implants depends on having healthy gums and adequate bone support for placement. Therefore, those with periodontal disease may need to have their condition treated before getting dental implants.
If you are considering dental implants, talk to your dentist about your periodontal disease and what treatment options are available. With proper care, you can have successful dental implant surgery despite having periodontal disease.
What are the Alternatives to Dental Implants?
When it comes to dental implants, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, you should consult with your dentist to see if implants are the best option for you. If you suffer from periodontal disease, you may be wondering what alternatives there are to dental implants.
One alternative to dental implants is dentures. Dentures can provide you with a full set of teeth that look and function just like natural teeth. However, they do require some maintenance and care, and they may not last as long as dental implants. Another alternative to dental implant bridges. Bridges are typically used when there are only a few missing teeth. They involve placing crowns on the adjacent teeth and then attaching the false tooth in between.
ultimately, the decision of whether or not to get dental implants is up to you and your dentist. Be sure to weigh all of your options before making a final decision.
Conclusion
All in all, dental implants can be a viable option when suffering from periodontal disease provided that the patient is willing to take extra precautions and follow the doctor’s instructions. With proper care and maintenance, it will help to reduce further damage caused by gum diseases and keep your dental implant healthy over time. Ultimately, it is important to consult with a dentist before undergoing any form of oral surgery in order for them to assess whether or not you are an appropriate candidate for this procedure.