Do Dental Implants Cause Gum Disease?
Dental implants themselves do not cause gum disease, but improper care and maintenance can lead to conditions that may impact their longevity and your oral health. Peri-implant diseases, such as peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis, are conditions similar to gum disease but specifically associated with dental implants. Seattle’s Family Dentistry provides tooth implants in Seattle, Shoreline, Ballard, WA, Greenwood, WA, Fremont, WA, Northgate, WA and surrounding areas.
Peri-Implant Mucositis
This is a reversible condition involving inflammation of the soft tissues around the implant, caused by plaque buildup. Common symptoms include redness, swelling, and bleeding during brushing. If treated early with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene, it can be resolved without damaging the implant or bone.
Peri-Implantitis
If peri-implant mucositis is left untreated, it can progress to peri-implantitis, a more severe condition. Peri-implantitis involves inflammation and bone loss around the implant, which may eventually lead to implant failure. This condition is similar to periodontitis (advanced gum disease) but specifically affects the tissues supporting the implant.
Causes and Prevention
The main causes of these conditions include poor oral hygiene, smoking, poorly controlled diabetes, and misaligned implants. Prevention focuses on maintaining excellent oral hygiene, including brushing twice daily, flossing, and using interdental brushes to clean around the implant. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are also essential.
Key Takeaway
Dental implants are a safe and effective solution for replacing missing teeth, but they require the same level of care—or more—as natural teeth. While they do not directly cause gum disease, neglect can lead to complications affecting the surrounding gums and bone. By maintaining good oral health practices and seeking prompt treatment for any signs of inflammation, you can enjoy the long-term benefits of your dental implants.
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