Dental implants are one of the most popular options for replacing missing teeth. They’re permanent, so once surgically placed in your jawbone, they can support a new restoration like a dental crown or dental bridge long-term. But if you have gum disease, you may not qualify for dental implants without receiving specialized treatment first. Our experienced periodontist, Dr. Gayle Bradshaw, discusses the importance of good oral health to support the long-term function of your dental implants. She can help you qualify for dental implant treatment by first getting your gum disease in The Woodlands, TX under control.
How Gum Disease Affects Your Health
Gum (periodontal) disease is a dangerous infection of the gum tissues caused by a buildup of bacterial plaque and tartar. If left to progress, periodontal disease will continue to infect and inflame the gums, causing them to pull away from the teeth. Over time, the bacteria that create this infection damage enough bone and tissue around your teeth that they become loose and may even fall out. More concerning, advanced stages of gum disease—characterized by chronic, low-grade infection from bacteria accumulation—are linked to systemic complications with high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and in worst cases, heart attack and stroke. Untreated periodontal disease makes it increasingly difficult to maintain both oral and physical health and creates an oral environment that is not safe for dental implants.
How to Qualify for Dental Implants
To qualify for dental implant treatment, you’ll first need to undergo treatment to get your periodontal disease in control. As a periodontist, Dr. Bradshaw is considered an expert in gum disease treatment and has decades of experience in procedures like scaling and root planing, gingivectomies, and osseous surgery. These treatments remove bacteria and diseased tissues to halt or reduce the spread of infection around your mouth. Once there is no more active infection and proper bone levels are restored in your jaw, it is safe to place dental implants. Dr. Bradshaw will then recommend a special oral hygiene routine designed to ensure your implants last long-term.
Schedule Your Consultation
Interested in dental implants even if you have gum disease? Dr. Bradshaw can help! Schedule a consultation and evaluation with our periodontist today by filling out our online appointment form or calling (281) 419-4655.