Can patients with periodontitis get dental implants after losing teeth?

Oct 16, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Chao

Introduction

If periodontitis is in the active stage, with problems such as redness, swelling, bleeding of the gums, and ongoing alveolar bone resorption, dental implantation cannot be performed directly. Initial treatment should include scaling and root planing to remove dental plaque and calculus and control inflammation. After the condition has stabilized for 3–6 months and a doctor confirms healthy periodontal tissues upon examination, the feasibility of dental implantation can then be evaluated.

After losing a tooth, patients with periodontitis must first control the inflammation and have their bone volume evaluated. Those who meet the criteria may proceed with dental implantation; otherwise, basic treatments are required beforehand. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and follow the doctor's instructions for treatment.

If periodontitis is in the active stage, characterized by redness, swelling, bleeding of the gums, and ongoing alveolar bone resorption, dental implants should not be placed directly. Instead, plaque and tartar must first be removed through scaling and root planing to control the inflammation. After the condition has stabilized for 3–6 months, and a doctor confirms that the periodontal tissues are healthy, the feasibility of implantation can then be assessed.

If sufficient alveolar bone volume remains after inflammation is controlled, allowing stable support of the implant, implantation can proceed normally. However, if bone volume is inadequate, bone augmentation surgery is required first, followed by implant placement after the bone has healed. Attempting implantation without controlling inflammation increases the risk of peri-implantitis, which may lead to implant failure.

After implantation, strict oral hygiene is essential. Patients should clean daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and dental floss, and undergo regular periodontal maintenance. Avoid chewing hard foods on the implant, and attend follow-up appointments as instructed to monitor periodontal health and implant stability, preventing recurrence of periodontitis from compromising the implant outcome.

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How many years can a dental implant generally last?

In general, dental implantation involves inserting an implant into the alveolar bone at the site of the missing tooth to restore the tooth's shape and function. The general reference price for dental implants ranges from 3,000 to 20,000 yuan per session, and improvement is typically noticeable within 3 to 6 months, although symptoms such as redness and pain may occur. Dental implants can last for 10 to 20 years or even longer.

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Is it better to get a porcelain crown or a dental implant when a tooth is missing?

In general, "porcelain" refers to porcelain crowns, and "implant" refers to dental implants. When deciding between a porcelain crown and a dental implant for a missing tooth, the choice should be based on the patient's specific circumstances. If a quick restoration is desired, a porcelain crown can be selected; if a more stable and long-lasting restoration is preferred, a dental implant may be chosen. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.

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What is meant by dental implant?

In general, dental implants are based on a substructure implanted into the bone tissue to support the retention of the upper prosthesis. This method involves placing an artificial tooth root into the alveolar bone to create a structure and function similar to that of a natural tooth. The reference price is usually 2000-4000 yuan per implant, and improvement is typically observed within 3-6 months.