12 May How Gum Disease Can Cause Dental Implant Failure
Dental implants are one of the best options for replacing missing teeth. However, if you do not have good dental health, implant failure is far more likely. For example, advanced gum disease can cause bone loss, infections, and even implant failure. If you have gum disease, getting dental implants isn’t out of the question, but you have to keep it under control with regular treatments and good oral hygiene.
Here’s what you need to know about gum disease and dental implant failure.
How Can Gum Disease Cause Implant Failure?
Gum disease is a chronic infection of the gum tissues. It typically starts with plaque buildup that irritates the gums and causes inflammation. In its earliest stage (gingivitis) gum disease can be reversed. But if it goes untreated, it will quickly progress. In its more advanced stages, gum disease causes bone loss in the jaw, which leads to tooth loss and dental implant failure.
When the post does not properly fuse with the jawbone, or if it loses stability after placement, a dental implant can fail. As a holistic practice, we do our best to provide a successful outcome by using biocompatible materials that adapt to your body’s chemistry and won’t be rejected. However, implant failure can happen years later because of factors like smoking, teeth grinding, and gum disease.
Just like natural teeth, implants rely on healthy gums and jawbone for support. When the gum tissues and bone surrounding the implant become infected—a condition known as peri-implantitis—it can lead to bone loss and compromise the implant’s stability. Without good oral hygiene, inflammation and infections from gum disease can threaten the success of even the best-placed implants.
Can You Get Dental Implants If You Have Gum Disease?
If you already have gum disease, that doesn’t rule out dental implants as an option. But first, you must treat the infection and keep it under control.
Placing implants in infected gum tissue significantly increases the risk of dental implant failure. However, with regular gum disease treatment and good oral hygiene habits, patients with a history of gum disease can still be good candidates for dental implants. As a holistic dental practice, we also focus on reducing systemic inflammation and supporting your body’s natural healing abilities with gentle, non-invasive treatments like ozone therapy.
For early-stage gingivitis, professional teeth cleanings and an improved at-home dental routine may be enough. For more advanced cases of gum disease, treatments like planing and scaling may be necessary. In severe cases, surgical treatments like bone grafting or gum tissue grafting may be required to provide a stable foundation for the implant.
Five Tips for Preventing Gum Disease
- Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss once a day
- Eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet
- Avoid smoking, tobacco use, and heavy drinking
- Manage systemic health conditions (like diabetes) that increase your risk of gum disease
- Visit your dentist regularly for treatments and cleanings
Holistic Dentistry Helps Keep Your Gums Healthy
Dental implants are a significant investment, so it’s wise to choose a holistic dental practice that prioritizes full-body wellness. At Prescott Dentistry, we know that fighting gum disease is the best way to prevent implant failure. If you need treatment for gum disease or you’re interested in getting dental implants, give us a call today to make an appointment.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (5/12/2025). Photo by Tatiana Zanon on Unsplash