eption that in order to have gum disease, one must first have teeth. This leads to many people neglecting their oral health under the misguided notion that, because they have no teeth to decay, there is no reason to take care of their oral health. However, even in absence of a full set of teeth, gum disease is still a very serious risk that can endanger not only your health, but the viability of your dental implants.
The Link Between Implant Failure and Gum Disease
Dental implants are an excellent choice for people who have experienced tooth loss. They have a high success rate, look and feel like real teeth, and are quite comfortable. Because of all of these benefits, it’s a clear choice for many patients.
However, it’s extremely vital to maintain your oral healthcare regimen after implant surgery. The same bacteria that lead to gum disease is the same kind that causes implant failure. Gum disease occurs when the toxic byproducts of the bacteria found in plaque begin to attack the gingival tissue in your mouth. Often brought on by neglecting your teeth, this condition can be prevented by taking care to brush your teeth twice a day and flossing nightly.
What does this mean for your dental implants? The fact is, it’s not just your teeth and gums that are at risk from gum disease. If left to progress untreated, the bacteria can work their way into your jawbone, leading to erosion of the bone. This is problematic; for the implant to be successful, it has to be secured to your bones. Unhealthy bones mean your risk of losing your implant is quite high.
Complacency is one of the most dangerous things that can happen to a good dental implant. In addition to keeping up with your brushing and flossing, be sure to schedule regular dental exams to help ensure that your gums and bones are healthy. Call our office today to schedule a comprehensive dental checkup with a cleaning and, if we notice any sign of infection at the site of your dental implants, we can start immediate treatment to help prevent it from failing.
