Dental Implants: Key Considerations and Expert Advice

Q: Dental Implants: Key Considerations and Expert Advice

Hello： Is it possible to get dental implants if you have periodontal disease? It should be possible, but the prerequisite is that your periodontal disease must be treated and in a stable condition, without inflammation or infection, and you must maintain excellent oral hygiene, e

Dental implant

Hello: Recently, I had my lower right second molar extracted due to periodontal disease, and the first molar had already been removed.
Since I cannot have a dental bridge, I am considering dental implants.
I would like to ask: Given that I still have periodontal issues with other teeth (the upper right two molars), is it advisable to proceed with implants simultaneously? Can an implant for the second molar be connected to the second premolar to create a bridge? If I only implant the first molar, are there any other issues? If I choose not to have any implants, what are the potential consequences? Additionally, how should I choose a dental implant specialist?

Ting Ting, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/05/31

Dr. Liu Tiancai reply Dentistry

Hello: Is it possible to get dental implants if you have periodontal disease? It should be possible, but the prerequisite is that your periodontal disease must be treated and in a stable condition, without inflammation or infection, and you must maintain excellent oral hygiene, ensuring your teeth are clean.
If this is the case, then you can proceed with dental implants.
However, if the periodontal disease has not been treated or, despite treatment, the patient cannot maintain oral hygiene, then dental implants are not suitable.
Dental implants can be connected to natural teeth, but some dentists believe this is not advisable, primarily because the mobility of an implant is only about 1/10th that of a natural tooth (while it may appear that teeth do not move, healthy teeth still exhibit some mobility).
Connecting a mobile natural tooth with a relatively immobile implant can lead to increased stress on the implant.
If only the first molar is replaced with an implant, it should restore about 70% of function.
However, the second molar provides posterior support for the dental arch, and having it helps stabilize occlusion (this is somewhat complex).
If neither molar is replaced, the maxillary teeth may over-erupt to fill the space, making it impossible to place a prosthesis and leading to unstable occlusion.
How to choose an implant dentist? As always, an experienced dentist will be better than one without experience.
You can also review the dentist's educational background and experience.
Generally, implant surgeries are performed by oral surgeons and periodontists, but if a dentist has received specialized training in implants, they are also qualified.
You are only 32 years old, and typically, periodontal disease should not be too severe at your age.
You can consult a dentist to see if you are a candidate for dental implants.
This response is provided on behalf of Dr.
Chen Yi-Chou, an oral surgeon.

Reply Date: 2005/05/31

More Info

When considering dental implants, especially after the extraction of teeth due to periodontal disease, there are several key factors to evaluate. Your situation involves the loss of your lower second molar and the previous extraction of the first molar, leading you to contemplate dental implants. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the considerations and expert advice regarding your queries.

1. Current Dental Health and Suitability for Implants
Before proceeding with dental implants, it’s crucial to assess the health of your remaining teeth, particularly those affected by periodontal disease. If you have ongoing periodontal issues in your upper right molars, it may not be advisable to proceed with implants until these issues are resolved. Active periodontal disease can compromise the success of implants, as the surrounding bone and gum tissue need to be healthy for proper integration of the implant.

2. Implant Options and Considerations
Regarding your question about connecting the second molar to the second premolar with a bridge, it’s important to note that implants can be used to replace individual teeth or to support a bridge. If you choose to implant the first molar, it can indeed serve as an anchor for a bridge that includes the second molar, provided that the second molar is also healthy enough to support the structure.

However, if you only implant the first molar, you may face challenges with chewing and maintaining proper alignment of your bite. The absence of the second molar can lead to shifting of adjacent teeth, which can complicate future dental work and overall oral health.

3. Consequences of Not Replacing Missing Teeth
If you decide against dental implants or any form of tooth replacement, several issues may arise:
- Shifting Teeth: Adjacent teeth may drift into the gap left by the missing molars, leading to misalignment and bite issues.

- Bone Loss: The jawbone can begin to deteriorate in the area where the tooth was lost, as the stimulation from the tooth root is no longer present.

- Functional Impairment: Missing teeth can affect your ability to chew properly, leading to dietary restrictions and potential nutritional deficiencies.

4. Choosing a Dental Implant Specialist
Selecting the right dental professional for your implant procedure is critical. Here are some tips:
- Qualifications and Experience: Look for a dentist who specializes in implantology and has extensive experience in placing dental implants, particularly in patients with periodontal issues.

- Consultation: Schedule consultations with multiple specialists to discuss your case. This will help you gauge their approach, treatment plans, and comfort level.

- Patient Reviews: Research patient testimonials and reviews to understand the experiences of others who have undergone similar procedures.

- Technology and Techniques: Inquire about the technology they use, such as 3D imaging for planning the implant placement, and their approach to managing periodontal disease.

5. Final Thoughts
In summary, while dental implants can be a viable solution for replacing missing teeth, it’s essential to address any existing periodontal disease before proceeding. The health of your remaining teeth and gums plays a significant role in the success of the implants. If you decide to move forward with implants, ensure you choose a qualified specialist who can provide a tailored treatment plan based on your specific dental health needs.

Ultimately, maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups will be crucial in preventing further periodontal issues and ensuring the longevity of your dental implants. If you have any further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dental care provider for personalized advice.

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