A person who has gum disease may still be eligible for dental implants. However, in most cases, your dentist will advise you to have the gum disease treated first. The reason for this is that dental implants require a stable jawbone and strong, healthy gums. Since gum disease attacks bone and gum tissue, it can significantly undermine the very structures that implants rely on. To ensure that your implants are sturdy and lasting, your dentist will develop a custom treatment plan that will meet all of your oral health requirements, including treatment for your gum disease. That’s why your first step should be to talk to a dentist that offers dental implants on Long Island while also treating gum disease.
How to Determine if You Are a Candidate for Dental Implants
The first thing that your dentist will do is to determine the extent of your gum disease. They will examine your gums in order to see whether there has been significant recession. They may also use X-rays and other methods to check the condition of your jawbone. If your gum disease has not severely deteriorated your gum and bone tissue, then your dentist will treat your gum disease before preparing you to receive dental implants.
Scaling and root planning—also known as a deep cleaning—is often used to remove bacteria and built-up tartar from your teeth and gums after they have accumulated as a result of gum disease. You’ll also need to continue taking good care of your teeth by brushing and flossing every day, and by having a professional cleaning once every six months.
What If Your Gums and Jawbone Are Damaged?
If your dentist determines that your gum and bone tissue has been damaged by your gum disease, then more advanced measures will be required to treat it. Dental bone grafting is one potential option. During a bone graft, your dentist will add bone tissue to your existing bone in order to strengthen it and increase its density. Not only does the new tissue help to keep your jawbone stable, but it also helps to generate the growth of new tissue.
The bone material is often taken from a different part of your body. A sinus lift may also be necessary in order to provide more room for the added bone tissue. Every patient’s situation will be unique, so your dentist will need to consult with you before determining the best way to proceed.
Do you need a gum graft dentist in Suffolk County, NY? Long Island Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry offers the wide range of general and cosmetic dental services you need to ensure that your smile remains bright and healthy, including a variety of implant options. We have also taken measures to keep our practice safe for everybody during the pandemic, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for all staff. Thus, you’ll always be in safe hands with our team!
If you are ready to learn more about how we can treat your existing issues and help to safeguard your oral health, call our office today and schedule a consultation.
