Losing a tooth can be distressing, and if gum disease (periodontitis) is the cause, you might worry that the gold standard replacement—dental implants—is now out of reach. It’s a common and very valid concern. In the UK, periodontitis is a leading cause of tooth loss, leaving many wondering if they can still achieve a stable, permanent new smile.
The good news, for most patients, is that having a history of gum disease does not automatically disqualify you from receiving dental implants. However, the process requires careful planning, expert treatment, and a commitment to maintaining excellent oral health.
This comprehensive guide from ODL Dental Clinic breaks down the relationship between gum disease and dental implants, outlining the essential steps to ensure a successful and long-lasting outcome.
A dental implant is a titanium screw placed surgically into the jawbone to act as a replacement tooth root, upon which a crown is fitted. For the implant to be successful, it needs to fuse securely with the surrounding bone in a process called osseointegration.
If you have active gum disease characterised by bleeding, inflammation, and ongoing infection, dental implant surgery cannot be safely performed. Here’s why:
The essential rule is: Active gum disease must be successfully treated and stabilised before any implant placement can be considered.
At a specialist clinic like ODL Dental Clinic in London, the path to receiving dental implants after gum disease is a two-phase process: first, treatment and stabilisation, and second, surgical planning and placement.
Your initial consultation will involve a thorough examination, including 3D imaging (like a CBCT scan), to accurately assess the extent of the gum disease and bone loss.
1. Periodontal Treatment
The primary goal is to completely eliminate the active infection. This usually involves professional cleaning, often including deep scaling and root planing, to remove plaque and tartar deposits from below the gum line. Depending on the severity, a specialist periodontist may be involved for advanced care.
2. Oral Hygiene Programme
Following gum disease treatment, you must commit to an outstanding, rigorous daily oral hygiene routine. This includes meticulous brushing, interdental cleaning, and regular check-ups with your hygienist. This commitment is non-negotiable for long-term implant success.
If your gum disease has caused significant bone deterioration, which is a common issue, you may need supplementary procedures before the implant can be placed.
1. Bone Grafting and Sinus Lifts
If there isn't enough bone volume or density in your jaw, the implant specialist at ODL Dental Clinic may recommend a bone graft. This procedure adds bone material (synthetic or natural) to the deficient area, allowing it to fuse with your existing jawbone over time to create a strong, stable foundation for the implant. If the upper jaw is affected, a Sinus Lift may be necessary.
2. Advanced Implant Techniques
In cases of more severe bone loss, some expert clinics may utilise advanced techniques like 'All-on-Four' or strategic angling of the implants to leverage existing, denser bone, potentially reducing the need for extensive grafting. Your clinician will discuss the most appropriate solution for your individual case.
Even after successful treatment, patients who have had gum disease have a slightly higher predisposition to a condition called peri-implantitis.
Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory disease that affects the gum and bone tissue surrounding a dental implant, making it very similar to periodontitis around a natural tooth. If left untreated, it can lead to bone loss around the implant and ultimately, implant failure.
Prevention is paramount. This is why post-treatment care and regular maintenance appointments, typically every 3-4 months, are even more critical for patients with a history of gum disease. Your ODL Dental Clinic team will create a bespoke maintenance programme tailored to your needs.
Q: Is it possible to have implants if I have severe bone loss from gum disease?
A: Yes, it is often possible. While severe bone loss is a challenge, modern techniques like bone grafting, sinus lifts, and advanced implant systems are designed to rebuild and utilise the available bone. A thorough 3D scan is the only way to accurately assess your specific needs and create a successful treatment plan.
Q: How long do I have to wait after gum disease treatment to get implants?
A: The waiting time varies based on the severity of your gum disease and the subsequent treatment required. Typically, your gums must be completely stable and healthy, which can take several weeks or months. If you require a bone graft, the healing and integration period for the graft can add several months to the overall timeline.
Q: What is the success rate of dental implants for patients with a history of periodontitis?
A: The success rate remains very high, provided the gum disease is fully resolved, and the patient adheres strictly to the recommended aftercare plan. Choosing a highly experienced clinician who specialises in both periodontics and implants, like those at ODL Dental Clinic, is crucial for managing the risks effectively and achieving an optimal outcome.
Q: Can I get an implant if my gum disease is only mild (Gingivitis)?
A: Mild gum disease (gingivitis) is reversible. Before any implant surgery, your dentist or hygienist will treat the gingivitis with professional cleaning and advice on improving your home care. Once resolved, you are an excellent candidate for dental implants, provided you have adequate bone.
Q: What are the alternatives if I am deemed unsuitable for dental implants?
A: If your bone loss is too severe or if you cannot commit to the long-term maintenance required, alternatives include traditional bridges or high-quality modern dentures. However, implants remain the only fixed solution that helps to stimulate the jawbone and prevent further bone atrophy.
Are you ready to stop worrying about missing teeth and discover if a life-changing dental implant solution is right for you?
Don't let a history of gum disease stop you from exploring your options. The specialist team at ODL Dental Clinic, a leading provider of high-quality dental implants in London, is dedicated to restoring smiles, even in the most complex cases. We prioritise stabilising your gum health first, ensuring a solid foundation for your new, permanent teeth.
Get the expert advice you need on periodontitis, bone grafting, and custom-designed dental implant solutions in the heart of the city.
Contact the ODL Dental Clinic in Finsbury Circus, Central London, today to book your no-obligation consultation. Our specialists will provide a bespoke treatment plan to guide you safely and successfully toward a stable, healthy, and beautiful new smile.
