Understanding Implants and Gum Disease
It has been reported in literature that dental implants have a very high success rate. Studies have shown that it is around the vicinity of 95 to 98%. Good candidates for the procedure enjoy this amazing benefit.
By ‘good’ means the patient is in sound oral and overall health, coupled with the proper oral hygiene routine. Your mouth must be in a healthy condition to ensure the high success rate of dental implants. Hence, the presence of tooth decay and/or gum disease may jeopardize the outcome.
Does this mean you cannot avail of the benefits of a dental implant if you have tooth decay and gum disease?
Actually, before you undergo a dental implant procedure, your dentist will first determine if you’re a good candidate. If gum disease or tooth decay are found at this stage, then these conditions need to be treated first. After a period of healing, implant dentistry may be reconsidered.
However, there are situations when even ‘good’ candidates can experience implant failure and implant loss. About 77% of patients contract peri-implant disease after the procedure. This is usually a result of poor oral hygiene or a lifestyle habit that is detrimental to implant success, like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
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