Dental implants and periodontal diseases are perhaps one of the most complex relationships in dentistry.
Periodontitis, if not treated in time, can end in the loss of teeth and molars, which would be resolved with implants. But in turn, the same disease translates into a decrease in available bone and a greater predisposition to bacterial infections, which in theory works against the implant.
Therefore, it is not surprising that one of the most frequently asked questions among our patients with periodontitis or gingivitis is whether they can undergo an immediate loading implantology procedure.
The answer is yes in almost 100% of the cases.. Fortunately, advances in implant treatments and oral care allow dental implants to be performed even in patients who had lost most of their teeth due to periodontitis.
To put ourselves in context, a periodontal disease is caused by bacteria and affects the tissues of the mouth that surround the teeth and molars. Basically, we are talking about gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis, which causes the well-known “bleeding gums”, consists of a treatable and reversible inflammation of the gums, since the supporting bone of the teeth has not been lost.
In the case of periodontitis, it is a more advanced stage of the disease that affects not only the soft tissues (the gums) that surround the tooth, but also the bone that supports it. Periodontitis can end in tooth loss and even affects health in general, especially in diabetic patients or those with cardiovascular problems.
For this reason, although patients with periodontal diseases can get dental implants without any problem, some factors must be taken into account.
What should we consider?
To begin with, the disease must be controlled before placing the implant. This is done through a correct diagnosis of the state of health of the gums and a cleaning treatment protocolized and appropriate to each specific case. The dentist then carries out a study of the general condition of the mouth, and especially of the density and quality of the bone where the implant is to be made. Today, technological advances allow a 3D image reconstruction of the maxilla to be performed and implants to be placed safely and predictably using virtual surgery.
Once we have controlled the disease and placed the implants, subsequent care and maintenance by the patient is essential. yes for anyone proper hygiene is basic to take care of their oral health, for patients with dental implants it is even more important, since it will decisively influence the maintenance and durability of their implants, because these enjoy a weaker natural protection than teeth against pathogenic bacteria .
In addition, a visit to the dentist every six months, at least, to check the general health of the mouth, and especially the implants, is highly recommended.