Why Healthy Gums Are Key to Long-Lasting Dental Implants
When we speak to our patients about dental implants, one of their first thoughts is usually to picture a metal post fusing with the jawbone. Whilst that is important, there is another aspect that is just as crucial: your gums. Healthy gums play a crucial role in protecting your bone, reducing the risk of infection, and helping your implant to look natural. Even the best-placed implant can run into trouble if the tissue surrounding it is not in good condition.
Before we place an implant, we take a good look at your gums. Sometimes, we need to add extra tissue to give your implant the best chance of success. A full gum graft is very reliable - it thickens and strengthens the area around your implant. The trade-off is that it can feel a bit sore where the tissue is taken from, and the colour may not perfectly match your other gums.
If your gums are healthy, we might use a gentler approach called an apically repositioned flap. This uses your existing tissue, blends naturally, and usually heals faster.
There is also a method where a thin strip of tissue is combined with a collagen matrix. Recovery can be smoother, and it can improve how your gums look afterward. This is a much more delicate procedure, but can be the right approach. It really depends on your gums, your bone, and the smile you’re looking to achieve.
Planning for the Best Result
All of our patients are different. What works for one person, may not be the best solution for another. Before we begin placing any implant, we conduct a full assessment of your gums, jawbone and overall oral health. Taking the time to do this ensures that we are able to plan a treatment that will not only work well, but will also look natural and last for many years to come.
How Long Do Implants Last?
Dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution. Many people keep them for decades, and some for life. But it isn’t just about the implant itself. The health of your gums and jawbone is a big factor. Brushing, flossing, and coming in for regular check-ups all help your implant stand the test of time.
Looking After Your Gums
Long after your implants have been placed, your gums will continue to do a lot of work - acting as a barrier against infection, keeping the implant secure, and ensuring that everything continues to look natural. When you come in and see us for follow-up visits, we will check the gum tissue closely. This allows us to catch any small issues and deal with them quickly, before they become bigger problems.
Gums: The Unsung Heroes
So whilst it may be easy to focus on the implant itself or the bone, it’s important to understand how much heavy lifting your gums do without you even realising it. With careful planning, skilled treatment, and ongoing care, we can help you to protect your investment, support how your implant functions and help to keep everything looking natural.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re thinking about dental implants, we’ll be with you every step of the way. You can book a free consultation or download our Patient Guide to Dental Implants. It’s a simple way to see what to expect before your first visit and feel confident about your treatment.