Can teeth lost due to periodontitis be replaced with dental implants?

In general, whether a tooth lost due to periodontitis can be replaced with a dental implant depends on a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's specific oral health condition. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention and undergo a thorough examination by a professional dentist. The detailed analysis is as follows:

If the patient has good overall oral health, sufficient remaining alveolar bone volume, well-controlled periodontal inflammation, and no other systemic diseases, dental implant surgery may proceed after confirmation through professional assessment. Prior to surgery, all residual periodontal inflammatory tissues must be thoroughly removed to ensure that both the bone and soft tissues at the implant site are healthy. Under these conditions, the implant can achieve stable osseointegration with the jawbone. With proper postoperative care, the implant survival rate is high, effectively restoring chewing function and aesthetic appearance.

However, if the patient has insufficient alveolar bone volume, persistent periodontal inflammation, or systemic conditions such as diabetes or osteoporosis, proceeding directly to implant surgery may result in poor implant stability, leading to complications such as infection, loosening, or even implant failure. In such cases, bone grafting procedures should first be performed to augment bone volume, periodontal treatment should continue until inflammation is resolved, and systemic conditions must be properly managed. Only after both oral and general health meet the necessary criteria should the patient be re-evaluated for implant eligibility.

After surgery, it is essential to strictly follow medical instructions, maintain excellent oral hygiene, avoid eating hard foods, and attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor the implant’s condition. If abnormal symptoms such as swelling or pain occur, prompt medical attention is required. Patients should also fully disclose their medical history to the dentist before surgery to prevent adverse effects on surgical outcomes and personal safety due to undisclosed health issues.