Dental implants are one of the most trusted and long-lasting solutions for replacing missing teeth. They restore function, improve confidence, and prevent bone loss in the jaw. However, patients with periodontitis often wonder if they are eligible for dental implants or if gum disease prevents them from undergoing treatment.
The short answer is that it may be possible to have implants even if you have periodontitis, but only after the gum disease has been properly treated and controlled. Active gum disease can significantly increase implant failure risk, so managing your periodontal health is a critical first step.
This detailed guide explains how periodontitis affects dental implant treatment, when implants are possible, and what steps patients need to take to ensure long-term implant success.
What Is Periodontitis?
Periodontitis is an advanced form of gum disease that causes inflammation, infection, and destruction of the tissues supporting the teeth. This includes:
- Gum tissue
- Periodontal ligament
- Jawbone surrounding the teeth
Without treatment, periodontitis can lead to gum recession, loose teeth, and tooth loss. It also increases the risk of systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
When considering dental implants, understanding the health of your gums and bone is extremely important since implants rely on strong bone for stability.
How Gum Disease Affects Dental Implant Success
A Dental implan Malden MA t functions like an artificial tooth root placed into the jawbone. For the implant to succeed, it must fuse with the bone through a process known as osseointegration. Healthy gums and healthy bone are both essential for this to happen.
Active periodontitis creates several problems for implants:
- Infection can spread to the implant site
- Bone loss limits the ability to support an implant
- Inflammation slows healing
- Higher risk of peri implantitis, an infection around implants
- Reduced long term implant stability
These factors significantly increase the risk of implant failure, which is why patients with untreated gum disease are not considered immediate candidates.
Can You Get Implants If You Have Periodontitis?
Yes, you may still be eligible for implants even if you have periodontitis, but only after the gum disease has been treated and stabilized. Successful implant placement requires a healthy oral environment.
A periodontist or implant dentist will evaluate the severity of the disease and determine whether the gums and bone can support an implant after appropriate treatment.
When Implants Are Possible After Periodontitis
You may be a good candidate for dental implants if the following conditions are met:
1. Gum disease is fully treated
This typically includes deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), antimicrobial therapy, and possibly periodontal surgery for advanced cases.
2. Inflammation is under control
Your gums should no longer bleed, swell, or show signs of active infection.
3. Bone density is adequate or restored
If gum disease caused bone loss, bone grafting may be needed before implant placement.
4. You maintain excellent oral hygiene
Commitment to daily brushing, flossing, and gum care is essential for implant success.
5. You attend regular periodontal maintenance visits
After treatment, routine checkups help keep gum health stable.
If these criteria are met, implants can be placed safely and have a high likelihood of long-term success.
Steps to Getting Implants With a History of Periodontitis
Below is a general treatment pathway for patients with gum disease who want dental implants.
Step 1: Comprehensive Periodontal Evaluation
Your dentist or periodontist will:
- Measure pocket depths
- Evaluate bone loss using X rays or 3D scans
- Assess gum health
- Identify active infection
This determines how severe the periodontitis is and guides the treatment plan.
Step 2: Periodontal Therapy
Before implant placement, all gum disease must be controlled. Treatment options include:
Scaling and Root Planing
Deep cleaning to remove bacteria and plaque from below the gumline.
Laser Therapy
Improves healing and reduces infected tissue in a minimally invasive way.
Periodontal Surgery
Needed in some moderate to severe cases to eliminate deep pockets and restore gum health.
Antibiotic Therapy
Helps control infection and inflammation.
Once the gums heal and measurements return to normal or stable levels, implant treatment can be considered.
Step 3: Bone Grafting (If Needed)
Periodontitis often causes bone loss. If the jawbone cannot support an implant, a bone graft may be recommended.
Bone grafting:
- Rebuilds lost bone
- Increases implant stability
- Improves long term outcomes
Healing times vary but typically range from three to six months before an implant can be placed.
Step 4: Dental Implant Placement
When gums and bone are healthy, the implant can be placed. The titanium post is positioned into the jawbone and allowed to heal.
Osseointegration usually takes several months. Once the implant is stable, an abutment and custom crown are attached to complete the restoration.
Step 5: Ongoing Maintenance
Patients with a history of gum disease must commit to strict oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings. This helps prevent peri-implantitis and ensures long-term implant success.
What is peri-implantitis?
Peri-implantitis is an infection around a dental implant that resembles periodontitis. It causes:
- Gum inflammation
- Bone loss
- Implant loosening
- Implant failure if untreated
Patients with a history of periodontitis are more likely to develop peri-implantitis, which is why maintenance is critical.
However, with proper care, most patients enjoy long-lasting results without complications.
Are Implants Safe for Patients With Gum Disease?
Yes, implants are safe once gum disease is properly treated. Research has shown that patients with a history of periodontitis can still achieve high implant success rates when:
- Disease is controlled
- Bone levels are restored
- Maintenance routines are followed
- A skilled implant dentist performs the procedure
Ignoring gum disease and placing implants too early, however, increases the risk of failure.
Benefits of Implants for Patients With Periodontitis
Replacing lost teeth with implants offers significant advantages for patients recovering from gum disease:
- Prevents further bone loss
- Restores chewing function
- Improves gum health by reducing trapped food and bacteria
- Supports nearby teeth by eliminating shifting
- Enhances facial structure and confidence
Implants also provide a long-term alternative to bridges or dentures.
Who Should Not Get Dental Implants?
Implants may not be recommended if:
- Gum disease is still active
- There is uncontrolled diabetes
- Severe smoking habit continues
- There is significant untreated bone loss
- The patient is unable to maintain oral hygiene
A dental evaluation will help determine whether implant therapy is appropriate.
Conclusion
It is absolutely possible to get dental implants even if you have periodontitis, but the gum disease must be treated first. Healthy gums and strong bone are essential for the long term success of dental implants. With proper periodontal therapy, bone regeneration if needed, and consistent maintenance, patients with a history of gum disease can enjoy successful and long lasting implant results.
If you have periodontitis and are considering implants, the first step is a professional evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
