Dental implants have become one of the most reliable and long-lasting solutions for replacing missing teeth. They restore function, confidence, and oral health better than traditional dentures or bridges. However, many patients wonder if they can still qualify for implants if they have periodontitis, also known as gum disease. This is a common concern, especially for adults who have lost teeth due to severe gum infection.
At Century Family Dental in Westborough, MA, we evaluate each patient carefully to determine whether implants are right for them. The good news is that patients with periodontitis can often still receive dental implants, but only after their gum disease has been successfully treated and stabilized.
Let’s explore what you need to know.
Understanding Periodontitis and Its Effect on Dental Implants
Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissues and destroys the bone supporting your teeth. If untreated, it can lead to tooth mobility, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss. Since implants rely on healthy bone for stability, periodontitis can affect whether dental implants can be placed safely.
The implant post must fuse securely with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration. If gum disease is still active, bacteria can affect this process, leading to implant instability or failure.
However, once gum disease is controlled, many patients can be candidates for implants.
To learn how gum health affects long-term oral wellness, visit our General dentistry services Westborough MA page.
Can You Get Implants If You Currently Have Periodontitis?
Patients with active gum disease cannot receive dental implants immediately. Before implant surgery, the gum infection must be completely treated and stabilised.
Placing an implant into an infected environment increases the risk of complications such as:
- Implant rejection
- Continued bone loss
- Infection around the implant
- Delayed healing
Your Westborough family dentist will first focus on treating the periodontitis with procedures such as deep cleanings, scaling and root planing, laser therapy, or addressing any contributing factors. Once the gum tissues heal and the bone becomes stable, implant treatment can be safely considered.
What About Patients Who Lost Teeth Due to Periodontitis?
If gum disease has already caused tooth loss, implants can still be a great replacement option. In fact, implants can help strengthen the jawbone and restore function more effectively than removable dentures.
Many patients who lost teeth because of gum disease require additional preparation before implant placement, including:
- Bone grafting
- Ridge preservation
- Sinus lift
- Gum disease maintenance
At Century Family Dental, we create a personalised treatment plan that may include both restorative dentistry and implant preparation to ensure the best outcome.
Why Treating Gum Disease First Is Essential
Treating periodontitis before implants is necessary for several important reasons:
1. Ensures Strong Bone Support
Gum disease destroys bone. Successful implant placement requires a stable bone foundation.
2. Reduces Infection Risk
Healthy gums reduce the chance of bacteria affecting the implant site.
3. Improves Long-term Implant Success
Studies show that patients with well-managed gum health have higher implant success rates.
4. Prevents Peri-implantitis
This condition is similar to periodontitis but occurs around an implant, leading to implant loosening or loss.
Good periodontal health supports a healthier mouth overall. Explore more preventative tips in our blog, The Ultimate Guide to Preventing Cavities.
What If You Have Bone Loss From Periodontitis?
Bone loss does not automatically disqualify you from implants. Our dental team may recommend treatments such as:
- Bone grafts to rebuild the missing jawbone
- Ridge augmentation to restore jaw shape
- Sinus augmentation for upper arch implants
Once the bone is restored and strong enough, you can safely move forward with dental implants.
Are There Alternatives If Implants Are Not Immediately Possible?
If your periodontitis is advanced or your bone is not ready for implants, you may still explore other options while you heal:
- Partial dentures
- Full dentures
- Implant-supported dentures at a later stage
- Dental bridges
During your consultation, your dentist will discuss all available options based on your oral health.
To learn more about replacing missing teeth, read our related blog:
Missing Teeth? How Dental Implants Can Change Your Life Forever
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can untreated gum disease cause implant failure?
Yes. Active gum infection damages bone and increases the risk of implant complications. Treating periodontitis first is necessary for long-term success.
2. How long after treating gum disease can I get implants?
The timeline varies. Some patients can begin implant planning within a few weeks, while others may need several months, depending on bone healing and gum stability.
3. Can implants help strengthen bone after periodontitis?
Yes. Once placed, implants stimulate the jawbone similar to natural tooth roots and help prevent further bone loss.
4. Do patients with a history of periodontitis need extra maintenance after implants?
They usually need more frequent cleanings and periodontal monitoring to ensure implant stability.
Moving Forward With Implant Treatment Safely
Having periodontitis does not automatically prevent you from getting dental implants. With proper diagnosis, gum disease treatment, and personalised planning, many patients can still enjoy the benefits of long-lasting implants.
At Century Family Dental in Westborough, MA, we combine advanced technology with personalised care to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile. Whether you need periodontal therapy, restorative dentistry, or a complete implant solution, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Schedule your consultation today to learn whether implants are right for you and begin your journey toward restored oral health.
