Can I Get Implants If I Have Gum Disease in NYC?
Quick Answer
Yes, but gum disease must be treated and controlled before dental implant placement. At Centre Dental Manhattan, we provide comprehensive periodontal treatment to prepare your gums and bone for successful implant placement. Active periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss and can also threaten implant longevity if not addressed.
Gum Disease and Dental Implants
Periodontal (gum) disease is actually the most common reason people need dental implants — it's the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. The good news is that treating gum disease first creates a healthy foundation for successful implants.
Stages of Gum Disease
- Gingivitis — Mild inflammation, reversible with proper care. Implants can proceed after treatment.
- Mild periodontitis — Early bone loss. Requires scaling and root planing before implants.
- Moderate periodontitis — Significant bone loss. May need bone grafting in addition to gum treatment.
- Severe periodontitis — Extensive bone and tissue destruction. Requires comprehensive treatment before implant consideration.
Treatment Steps Before Implants
- Comprehensive evaluation — Full-mouth X-rays, probing depths, and assessment of bone levels
- Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) — Removal of tartar and bacteria below the gumline
- Possible surgical treatment — Gum grafting or pocket reduction surgery if needed
- Healing period — 4-8 weeks to allow gums to heal and stabilize
- Re-evaluation — Confirm gum disease is controlled before proceeding with implants
- Implant placement — Once periodontal health is established
Preventing Peri-Implantitis
Peri-implantitis is an infection around dental implants similar to gum disease around natural teeth. Patients with a history of periodontal disease are at higher risk and should:
- Maintain meticulous daily oral hygiene
- Use a water flosser daily
- Visit the dentist every 3-4 months (not 6)
- Report any signs of inflammation immediately
Related Questions
No — active gum disease must be treated and controlled first. Placing implants in an infected environment dramatically increases the risk of failure.
Gum disease can recur if oral hygiene is neglected. While implants can't get cavities, they can develop peri-implantitis. Consistent home care and regular dental visits are essential.
Treatment takes 4-12 weeks depending on severity. Mild cases may only need one or two deep cleaning sessions, while severe cases may require surgical intervention.
Patients with a history of treated and controlled gum disease have slightly lower success rates (about 90-93%) but still excellent outcomes with proper maintenance.
Full-arch implants replace all teeth and much of the diseased tissue. However, the remaining gum tissue around implants still needs care. Implants don't eliminate the need for good oral hygiene.
Healthy Gums, Strong Implants
Our comprehensive approach treats gum disease and restores your smile. Free consultation at Centre Dental Manhattan.
Book Online (212) 925-7066