Considering A Dental Implant? Maintain Your Gum Health

A dental implant-based restoration of a lost tooth is considered one of the best options for tooth replacement. Implants replace the roots of lost teeth. As a result, they rest in the jawbone, providing the stabilization associated with natural teeth. The dentist inserts the implant into the bone through the gums. Over the course of a few months, the jawbone integrates with the device, eliminating the space between the implant and the bone. Consequently, like a natural tooth, the implant transfers bite forces to the bone, stimulating the production of additional bone cells. This stimulation is needed for the jawbone to maintain a healthy mass that can support the teeth and the soft tissues that help define the facial structure.

The implant is also preferred for a single-tooth restoration because its placement does not require the alteration of healthy teeth. A dental bridge requires the removal of tooth material from the abutment teeth so that the bridge crowns can secure the appliance into place. Nevertheless, the implant is not a standalone application. The device must be covered by other dental appliances that replace the missing tooth's natural crown. After the addition of an abutment, an implant can be topped by a dental crown, bridge, or denture, depending on the patient's needs. 

Implants also have a high success rate. Still, if you are considering a dental implant, you should maintain the health of your gums. Here are a few reasons why.

People With Periodontitis Have a Higher Rate of Implant Failure

Periodontitis is a severe type of gum disease. The condition causes spaces, or pockets, to develop between the teeth and the gums. Bacteria fill these gaps to cause gingival infections that can spread to the jawbone. 

This condition can be avoided by reversing gum disease in its early stage, also called gingivitis. If you notice signs of gingivitis, such as bleeding, swollen, or sensitive gums, start to brush and floss more diligently. Also, use a mouth rinse that helps kill oral bacteria. Much of the inflammation of the gums is caused by bacterial acids, and the elimination of the microbes can minimize the amount of acid in the mouth.

If periodontitis develops, a specialized treatment called a root planing and scaling procedure may be necessary to reverse the disease.

Periimplantitis Can Prevent the Healing of an Implant Wound

After the placement of an implant, the gums around the device can become inflamed. The resulting condition, which is called periimplantitis, can prevent the implant wound from healing. The condition can be avoided by following the wound care instructions from the dentist, including rinsing with a designated mouth rinse and taking prescribed antibiotics.

To learn more about dental implants, schedule a consultation with a dentist or company like Orange Door Dental Group.