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Receding gums, or gingival recession, can be a common issue, especially as we age. You might wonder: can I still have dental implants with receding gums?
This blog post explores the impact of receding gums on dental implant candidacy and outlines the treatment options available for individuals with gum recession.
Table of Contents
- What is Gum Recession?
- Can You Have Dental Implants with Receding Gums?
- Dental Implants and Gum Health
- How to Fix Receding Gums
- Take the First Step Towards a Healthier Smile!
Receding gums can affect the success of dental implants, but there are treatment options available to improve candidacy and ensure a successful implant procedure.
What is Gum Recession?
Gum recession, or gingival recession, is when your gum tissue gradually pulls away from your teeth, exposing the roots.
When gum recession progresses, it can lead to sensitivity, increased risk of tooth decay, and even tooth loss. In severe cases, recession can expose more of the tooth root, making it harder to maintain good oral hygiene.
Key warning signs of gum recession include:
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Visible roots around your teeth
- Changes in your smile or tooth appearance
- Tooth loss
If you notice these signs, it is important to consult with your dentist as soon as possible. They will recommend treatments or changes in your oral hygiene routine that can stop recession.
Can You Have Dental Implants with Receding Gums?
Yes, you can still have dental implants even if you have receding gums.
Gum recession does not disqualify you from getting dental implants, but it can impact the success rate and longevity of the implant, especially if left untreated.
If you have receding gums, the cause will have to be eliminated or treated before you can have the surgery.
Causes of Receding Gums
The most common causes include:
- Aggressive brushing – Brushing too hard can wear away gum tissue.
- Periodontal disease – This gum infection is a leading cause of gum recession and tooth loss.
- Poor oral hygiene – Inadequate brushing and flossing allow bacteria to build up, leading to gum disease.
- Genetic factors – Some people are genetically predisposed to gum recession.
Dental Implants and Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and can destroy the bone supporting your teeth if left untreated.
It begins with bacterial plaque buildup on the teeth, which, if not properly cleaned through brushing and flossing, can harden into tartar.
The presence of tartar fosters bacterial growth, leading to inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and eventually progressing to periodontitis, a more severe form of the disease that can cause gum recession and tooth loss.
Common causes of periodontal disease include poor oral hygiene, smoking, hormonal changes, chronic illnesses like diabetes, and a genetic predisposition.
To be considered for dental implants, patients with gum disease must:
- Have their periodontal disease under control
- Complete any necessary treatment, such as scaling and root planing or gum surgery, to improve gum health before implant placement
- Maintain good oral hygiene practices
- Have medical conditions under control
- Be non-smokers or willing to quit smoking
Dental Implants and Gum Health
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots designed to support replacement teeth securely in your jaw bone.
A healthy gum line is important since gum and bone tissues play an essential role in supporting the titanium post. Gum recession can affect how well the implant fuses to the jaw bone (a process called osseointegration).
Without sufficient soft tissue, implants may fail, which is why assessing gum health is a critical factor in planning an implant procedure.
How to Fix Receding Gums
Several treatment options are available to stop gum recession and improve your chances of successful implant placement. Your oral surgeon may recommend:
Non-surgical treatments
- Root planing – Deep cleaning to remove bacteria and plaque from the root surface.
- Antibiotic therapy – Reduces infection and helps control bacterial accumulation around the gums.
- Fluoride toothpaste – Protects exposed roots from sensitivity.
Surgical treatments
- Gum grafting – Uses a piece of tissue from your mouth or synthetic materials to cover the exposed root, reinforcing your gums.
- Soft tissue augmentation – Adds additional gum tissue to areas with severe gum recession.
- Flap surgery – Removes deep pockets of bacteria and helps the gums heal around the implant.
- Bone grafting – In cases of bone loss, bone grafting rebuilds the jaw bone, providing stability for implants.
Take the First Step Towards a Healthier Smile!
If you are considering dental implants and would like to know if you qualify, schedule a dental implant consultation at our oral surgeon’s office in Boulder.
Our experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons, Dr. Thao Le, DDS, MD and Dr. Benjamin Foley, DDS, will perform a thorough evaluation of your oral health and recommend the best treatment plan to restore your beautiful smile.To book an appointment, call (303) 444-2255 or complete the online booking form. Our office is conveniently located at 1420 28th St, Boulder, CO.
