Gum Disease Screening Before Implants
 Considering dental implants? A crucial part of the process is ensuring your gums are healthy. Gum disease screening before implants helps determine whether your mouth is ready for a successful and long-lasting restoration. At Periodontal Health Professionals, our dental team carefully evaluates your gum health as part of the implant preparation process to minimize complications and maximize success.
Why Gum Disease Screening Is Critical Before Implants
Healthy gums are the foundation for strong, stable dental implants. Without them, implants may not integrate properly with your jawbone, potentially leading to implant failure.
Gum disease screening before implants is essential because even mild infections can interfere with osseointegration—the process where the implant fuses to the jawbone. Inflammation or infection around the gums can compromise this process, increasing the risk of complications.
Multiple studies have shown that patients with untreated periodontal disease face a significantly higher risk of implant failure. Conversely, addressing gum disease early boosts the long-term success rate and lifespan of your implants.
What Is a Periodontal Screening?
A periodontal screening before dental implants is a clinical examination focused on evaluating your gum and bone health.
During the screening, the dentist checks for:
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Pocket Depth - Measures how far the gum has detached from the tooth; deeper pockets suggest more advanced disease.
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Gum Inflammation - Redness, swelling, or bleeding can signal infection or irritation.
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Bone Loss - X-rays are used to identify any bone deterioration that may affect implant stability. |
A periodontal probe is used to gently measure the gum pockets around each tooth. Even if symptoms are not visible to you, issues like deep pockets or bone loss can exist without pain or swelling. Early diagnosis is critical for creating a successful treatment plan.
What Happens During a Dental Implant Pre-Screening?
Your dental implant pre-screening involves more than just evaluating your gums. It’s a full oral health check designed to ensure your mouth is ready for a stable implant.
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Health History Review - Discusses any medical conditions, medications, or prior treatments that could impact healing.
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Oral Exam - A thorough inspection of teeth, gums, and soft tissues.
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X-rays and 3D Imaging - Technologies like panoramic x-rays or CBCT scans assess jawbone density and structure.
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Gum and Bone Evaluation - Identifies any periodontal or anatomical issues that must be addressed before implant placement. |
This comprehensive process helps create a personalized treatment plan. Results are typically available quickly, allowing your dentist to map out your implant journey from screening to placement.
Can You Still Get Implants If You Have Gum Disease?
Yes, you can still get dental implants—but only after treating existing gum disease. Active periodontal disease must be addressed to reduce the risk of complications during and after implant surgery.
Common treatment options include:
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Deep Cleanings (Scaling and Root Planing) - Removes plaque and bacteria from beneath the gumline.
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Periodontal Surgery - In more severe cases, surgical treatment may be required to restore gum and bone health.
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Ongoing Maintenance - Regular cleanings and check-ups before and after implant surgery ensure disease stays under control. |
After treatment, there may be a healing period before implants can be placed. Your dentist will guide you through the steps needed to maintain candidacy and ensure a successful outcome.
Consequences of Skipping the Screening
Skipping a gum disease screening before implants may save time in the short term, but it can lead to serious long-term problems.
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Increased Risk of Implant Failure - Infection or inflammation can interfere with healing and bone integration.
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Peri-Implantitis - A condition similar to gum disease that occurs around implants, often due to poor gum health.
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Costly Revision Surgeries - Failed implants may require removal, bone grafting, or re-treatment, which can be expensive and uncomfortable. |
Prevention is far less costly and far more effective than dealing with complications later. A proper screening helps secure your investment in dental implants.
Preparing for Your Screening Appointment
To make the most of your dental implant evaluation, come prepared with the right information and questions.
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Medical and Dental History - Bring a list of medications and any history of gum issues or surgeries.
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List of Symptoms - Note any signs of discomfort, swelling, or bleeding.
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Questions to Ask - Examples include: “Do I have signs of gum disease?” and “Will I need treatment before implants?”
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Expect an In-Depth Assessment - The dentist will evaluate your readiness and discuss a timeline for treatment and implant placement. |
The full process from screening to implant placement varies by individual but typically spans several weeks to months depending on your oral health.
Schedule Your Dental Implant Evaluation
If you're considering implants, an early gum disease screening is a crucial first step. Our team at Periodontal Health Professionals is here to guide you through every stage of the process—from evaluation to final restoration.
Call (856) 702-4340 today to schedule your gum disease screening and take the first step toward a healthy, successful dental implant experience.
FAQs
Is gum disease screening always necessary before getting dental implants?
Yes, gum disease screening is a vital part of the dental implant evaluation. Healthy gum tissue is essential for implant success, and untreated gum disease can lead to implant failure.
What happens if gum disease is found during the screening?
If gum disease is detected, your dentist will recommend treatment such as deep cleaning or periodontal surgery. Only once your gums are healthy will implant treatment proceed.
How long after gum disease treatment can I get dental implants?
The timeline varies depending on the severity of the disease and how well your gums respond to treatment. In many cases, a healing period of several weeks to months is needed before implant placement.
Can I have dental implants if I’ve had gum disease in the past?
Yes, many patients with a history of gum disease successfully receive implants. The key is ensuring the condition is treated and well-managed before proceeding with implant surgery. |
