Reasons for a Periodontist to Place Dental Implants

Dental implants consist of rods or screws that are inserted into a person’s jawbone to replace missing teeth roots that come out when teeth are lost. An implant serves as a base for a restoration like a crown, which replaces the tooth’s visible part.

Placing implants in a person’s mouth requires minor oral surgery. Periodontists often perform the procedure because they have additional education on gum tissue issues. They are qualified to perform dental surgical procedures like the installation of implants.

Reasons that a periodontist might recommend dental implants

Let us look at a few of the reasons that a periodontist might recommend replacing lost teeth with implants.

1. To restore the function and appearance of missing teeth

Implants are hidden underneath a patient’s gum tissues, and the restorations that go over them are designed to look just like natural teeth. The restoration is also almost as stable as a real tooth because the implant fuses with bone tissues around it via osseointegration. It can take up to six months to complete the process of replacing missing teeth with implants.

2. To preserve the patient’s jawbone

Implants are the only missing teeth replacement options that prevent the jawbone deterioration that occurs when teeth fall out. Like muscle tissues, bone tissues need to be regularly stimulated to keep them healthy and strong. Parts of the jawbone stop getting this stimulation when teeth fall out, leading to tissue loss. Bone tissue loss typically leads to changes in a person’s facial structures and the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. If a patient has already lost considerable amounts of bone tissue in their jaw, bone grafts can be used to restore it.

3. To keep your remaining teeth properly aligned

Teeth often move out of their proper alignment when there is a space in between the teeth. This is the body’s way of trying to close the gap. Poorly aligned teeth can affect the appearance of the smile, and it makes it more challenging to keep teeth clean, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Implants close the space left behind by missing teeth, preventing the remaining natural teeth from becoming misaligned.

A periodontist is the right person for the job

Periodontists have additional education focused on diagnosing and treating jaw issues and performing oral surgery. Gum disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss, and many people with missing teeth already see a periodontist for this condition. The periodontist’s familiarity with the patient’s dental health issues and additional training makes them the best candidate for the job. They are also qualified to handle any complications that develop due to the placement of dental implants.