Can You Get Dental Implants with Gum Disease? Yes—Here’s How
If you’ve been told you have gum disease and are wondering if dental implants are still an option, the answer is encouraging: Yes, it is possible with the right care and preparation. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health issue. However, advancements in modern dentistry mean it doesn’t have to prevent you from achieving a healthy, confident smile—even when considering dental implants with gum disease.
Whether you’re missing teeth due to gum disease or other reasons, dental implants remain one of the most reliable, long-term solutions available. We’ll walk you through how gum disease affects your implant eligibility—and show you what steps you can take to improve your chances for successful dental implant treatment right here in Lakewood, Washington.
Understanding Gum Disease and Its Stages
Gum disease starts quietly, often without pain, and progresses through several stages:
Gingivitis
This is the earliest stage, marked by red, swollen, or bleeding gums. This condition can be effectively reversed through professional dental cleanings and diligent oral hygiene practices.
Mild to Moderate Periodontitis
As the condition worsens, the gums begin to detach from the teeth, forming pockets where bacteria gather. Bone loss around the teeth can begin at this stage and may require implant treatment for periodontitis if tooth replacement becomes necessary.
Advanced Periodontitis
At this stage, there is significant bone loss, deep pockets, and possibly loose or shifting teeth. Tooth loss becomes a serious concern, and restoring oral function may involve advanced implant solutions.
Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. It’s also one of the main issues dentists must address before placing dental implants, especially in patients at risk for peri-implant mucositis—an early inflammatory condition that can affect implant sites. If you’re in the American Lake area and concerned about gum disease or dental implants, it’s important to seek care early to protect your long-term oral health.
How Gum Disease Affects Dental Implant Success
Dental implants need healthy gum tissue and strong jawbone support to properly fuse with the bone, a process known as osseointegration. Active gum disease can weaken both of these, raising the risk of implant failure and compromising not only the implant but also your natural teeth if left untreated.
You can still get dental implants even with gum disease—as long as we first stabilize your gum health through targeted dental care and a personalized treatment plan.
Treatment Planning for Patients with Gum Disease
At our Lakewood dental office near Fort Steilacoom Park, we take a comprehensive and personalized approach to restoring smiles—even for patients dealing with gum disease. No matter the stage of your gum disease—early or advanced—our experienced team in Washington State actively manages complex cases to help you achieve lasting, successful results with dental implants. Here’s what your treatment journey may involve:
Initial Periodontal Therapy
Before considering implants, we need to bring your gum disease under control. This may include deep cleanings, antibiotic therapy, and improved at-home oral care.
Surgical or Regenerative Procedures
In cases of significant bone loss, bone grafting or guided tissue regeneration may be needed to rebuild the foundation for future implants.
Monitoring and Maintenance
Once your gum health is restored, we will monitor it closely to ensure stability. Long-term success with dental implants requires good oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
Implant Placement
After confirming healthy gums and sufficient bone structure, dental implants can be placed. Upon healing, the implants provide stable support for a natural-looking crown, bridge, or denture.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
Dental implants offer unmatched benefits:
- Natural look and feel
- Long-term durability, often lasting decades
- No slipping or clicking like dentures
- Help preserve jawbone and facial structure
Whether you’re in the early stage of gum disease or have already lost teeth, dental implants can still be a life-changing solution. For patients in Lakewood, Washington, dental implants are an excellent option—even if gum disease has been an issue in the past.
Don’t Let Gum Disease Hold You Back. We Can Help.
If you are experiencing gum disease and missing teeth, there is no need to compromise on your dental care. We specialize in helping patients restore their health and confidence with personalized care. Whether you’re near Pierce College, visiting Lakewold Gardens, or living anywhere in the Lakewood and greater Pierce County area, we offer every treatment option—from gum therapy to advanced dental implants—to guide you toward a healthier smile.
To assess your eligibility for dental implants, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our team. Schedule your consultation today with Dr. Kevin Kim, DDS, and take the first step toward your healthiest smile.