There’s no denying the benefits of dental implants. From preserving a patient’s bone structure to simply making their smile look more complete and beautiful, dental implants can be life-changing. However, many patients worry that their gum disease or history of gum disease may make them ineligible for dental implants. Fortunately, that’s not typically the case. McKinney, TX dentist Dr. Barret Davidson and the award-winning team at Texas Sage Dentistry are committed to helping all patients – including those with a history of gum disease – restore their oral health and improve their appearance with advanced restorative dentistry services, including dental implants. Learn more about how your gum disease may affect your ability to get dental implants here.
Also known as gum disease, periodontal disease occurs as the result of an infection or inflammation in the gums and other oral tissues. Most often, gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque, bacteria, and other debris that is not adequately managed with proper oral hygiene techniques. When caught in its early stages, including gingivitis, gum disease can be treated fairly easily without long-term consequences. Once gingivitis progresses to periodontitis or advanced periodontal disease, patients may suffer permanent damage, including tooth or bone loss.
A dental implant is a titanium screw that is implanted into the gum and ultimately fuses with the natural jawbone. This can take up to 6 – 9 months to happen, at which time a custom restoration – such as a crown – is connected to the implant. Dental implants are particularly beneficial for patients who have lost teeth due to:
Because a dental implant has to integrate with the bone and other tissues, patients with active periodontal disease may not be eligible to undergo implant placement until their gum disease has been treated. If the patient’s gum disease is early and mild, their dental implant procedure may only be delayed a few weeks. However, patients with advanced periodontal disease may require more extensive treatment to prepare their mouth for implants. Patients who have already experienced bone or tissue loss due to advanced periodontal disease will likely need a bone or tissue graft to restore a stable structure with which the implant can fuse. For these patients, it may be several months or even a year before the dental implant can be placed. If an implant is placed before the patient’s gum disease has been adequately treated, it has a significant chance of failing. With a knowledgeable and experienced dentist, like Dr. Davidson, patients can rest assured that their oral health will be intact before implant placement, which will give their implant the highest chance of success.
Don’t let your history of gum disease discourage you from getting dental implants in McKinney, TX
Thanks to the incredible advances in modern technology, medicine, and dentistry, even patients with a history of gum disease and bone loss can often have dental implants placed successfully. To learn more about the functional and cosmetic benefits of dental implants, call Texas Sage Dentistry to schedule your one-on-one consultation with top McKinney, TX cosmetic dentist Dr. Barret Davidson today!
400 N Tennessee St, McKinney, TX 75069
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