What You Should Know About Dental Implants And Your Weak Gums Or Jawbone
When you get dental implants, the success of the implants themselves is reliant on the durability and health of your gums and jawbone. If you have healthy gums and a healthy jawbone in general, then you can get dental implants without much issue. Your dental implant specialist will simply complete the dental implant surgery after ensuring the rest of your oral health needs have been met.
If you have weak gums or periodontal disease or have a weak or deteriorating jawbone, however, you can still get dental implants, but the procedure might be different. Here are things you should know about getting dental implants when you have weak gums or a weak jawbone in general.
You might have to get a bone or gum graft
If you have a severe jawbone deficiency or your gums are too low or deteriorated — often caused by nicotine use, gum disease, or even age — you can consider having a bone or gum graft done prior to having your dental implant surgery performed. This is an intensive dental procedure, but can give you permanent results and can help make getting dental implants more successful.
This is a measure to consider if you need a full set of dental implants put in or if your bone density is so low in your jaw that even wearing dentures is uncomfortable and not a viable solution for you. Your dentist will let you know what the best solution is for your dental care regarding a bone or gum graft. You'll have to heal completely before getting dental implants put in, so be patient.
You might be able to get dental implants above the jawbone
If you want dental implants right away or you are resistant to getting intensive graft work done on your mouth, you might be able to get dental implants put in anyway. This is a type of implant known as a subperiosteal implant, or an implant that goes above the jawbone but under the gums. This is worth considering if you need a few dental implants in the front of your mouth or if you are otherwise not a candidate for a bone graft. You do, however, have to have healthy gums, so speak with your dentist to see if this solution can work for you.
Your dentist will work with you to help you achieve a healthier, more productive smile. If you want dental implants but you have weak gums or an unhealthy jawbone, speak to your dentist about your potential options.
To learn more about dental implants, reach out to a dentist today.
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