How Periodontal Disease Affects Dental Implants
Posted on August 28, 2025
Gum disease is often the cause of tooth loss that leads adults to seek dental implants in Oshawa. As severe plaque and tartar buildup cause gum recession, teeth can eventually fall out. Over time, these missing teeth may lead to bone loss and other oral health concerns, which is why experienced periodontists in Oshawa often recommend dental implants as a solution. Inserted directly into the jaw, dental implants help maintain bone density and restore tooth function. One of the most significant benefits of implants is that they look, feel, and function like natural teeth, but this also means they must be cared for just as diligently. Without proper oral hygiene, periodontal disease can develop or return and compromise the success of the implant. At The Perio Centre, Dr. Adam Ohayon, a trusted periodontist in Oshawa, can help you tailor your post-care implant routine to maximize success and longevity.
Here are some of the ways unchecked periodontal disease can affect your dental implants.
Bone Loss Around the Implant
Dental implants require a strong foundation in the jaw bone. When gum disease advances, it can eat away at that bone through inflammation and infection, weakening the structure that is supporting the implant. Eventually, this may cause implants to become loose or fail altogether. Preventive care and early intervention are key to preserving bone health. After your dental implant procedure, our team at The Perio Centre will provide aftercare instructions so you can protect your implant and your overall health. We will also schedule follow-up appointments when required and suggest scaling and root planing treatments when necessary.
Peri-Implantitis
Peri-implantitis is a condition similar to periodontitis, but it affects the soft and hard tissues surrounding a dental implant. It causes gum inflammation, bleeding, and loss of supporting bone around the implant. Often caused by poor hygiene or untreated gum disease, peri-implantitis can lead to implant failure if not treated by a qualified periodontist in Oshawa.
Implant Failure Risk
Even if implants are placed successfully, the presence of active gum disease significantly increases the chance of complications down the road. For patients receiving dental implants in Oshawa, maintaining gum health is essential. Regular dental visits, cleanings, and proper brushing and flossing habits are critical to implant success. Before receiving dental implants in Oshawa, our team will help you get your oral health in the right place to safely and comfortably undergo the implant treatment, mitigating the opportunity for failure. These treatments could include sinus lifts, gum regeneration, root planing and scaling, or others. Book a consultation at The Perio Centre to learn more about how you can get your smile ready for implants.
Delays in the Implant Process
If periodontal disease is present when implants are planned, treatment may be delayed until the infection is resolved. This is because inserting implants into infected tissue increases the chance of failure. Treating gum disease before implant placement ensures a healthier foundation and long-term success.
Protecting Your Dental Implant Investment at The Perio Centre
Dental implants are a significant investment in your health and quality of life. Preserving that investment means working with specialists like Dr. Ohayon to maintain healthy gums, address issues early, and monitor bone health over time. Routine periodontal care, proper home hygiene, and regular professional assessments are all part of protecting your implant.
Reimagine your smile.