Quick answer: Yes—many people who’ve had gum disease can still have dental implants. The key is that the condition is treated and stable, there’s enough healthy bone, and you’re committed to excellent oral hygiene and regular maintenance.
If you’ve lost teeth because of gum disease (periodontitis), you’re not alone. Gum disease is one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss in the UK.
It’s natural to wonder: “Am I still suitable for dental implants if I’ve had gum disease?”
The short answer is: possibly—suitability depends on the stability of your gums, bone health, and overall oral hygiene. This guide explains what gum disease means for implant treatment, what makes someone a suitable candidate, and how clinics like The Campbell Clinic in Nottingham support patients in this situation.
Understanding Gum Disease and Tooth Loss
Gum disease happens when bacteria cause chronic inflammation of the gums and supporting bone. In advanced stages, the infection can damage bone and tissue around teeth, leading to tooth loss.
When teeth are lost due to gum disease, the surrounding bone can continue to shrink—making replacement more complex. Careful assessment and treatment planning are essential before considering dental implants in Nottingham.
Key takeaway: Implants are often possible after gum disease, but only once the condition is stabilised and your clinician confirms there’s enough bone—or that it can be rebuilt with advanced techniques.
Are Dental Implants Possible After Gum Disease?
Yes, many patients who’ve had gum disease successfully receive dental implants. However, there are important considerations:
- Active vs. past gum disease: If gum disease is active (bleeding gums, loose teeth, infection), implants are not suitable until the disease is controlled. If gum disease has been treated and stabilised, implants may be possible.
- Bone levels: Gum disease can cause bone loss. Implants need sufficient bone to anchor securely. In cases with insufficient bone, grafting procedures may be recommended.
- Oral hygiene: Patients who’ve had gum disease must commit to excellent daily oral hygiene and regular maintenance appointments to support long-term success.
.png?width=1920&height=1080&name=Untitled%20(Presentation).png)
The Risks: What You Should Know
Patients with a history of gum disease may face slightly higher risks of implant complications, including:
- Peri-implantitis (an inflammatory condition around implants, similar to gum disease)
- Higher risk of implant failure if gum disease is not fully stabilised
- Need for ongoing maintenance to monitor implant health
Important: A thorough assessment and stabilisation of gum health come first. Your implant team should discuss benefits, risks, and alternatives so you can make an informed choice.
This is why it’s critical to choose an implant team experienced in treating patients with gum disease. At The Campbell Clinic, many of our implant patients come to us after losing teeth due to periodontal issues.
How The Campbell Clinic Helps Patients With Gum Disease
We follow a structured pathway designed to maximise long-term success:
- Comprehensive assessment: A full examination, including 3D scans, to assess gum health, bone levels, and infection risk.
- Gum disease treatment first: Collaboration with periodontal specialists and hygienists to stabilise gum condition before implant placement.
- Advanced techniques if required: Where bone loss has occurred, techniques such as grafting or sinus lifts can help create a stable foundation.
- Maintenance programme: Tailored hygiene and review appointments to help protect your implants.
Good to know: After implant treatment, patients with a history of gum disease usually benefit from hygiene visits every 3–4 months and careful home care to reduce the risk of peri-implantitis.
Alternatives if Implants Aren’t Suitable
If implants aren’t possible due to severe gum disease, other solutions may still restore your smile:
- Implant-retained dentures (using fewer implants in strategic positions)
- Traditional dentures (modern designs and materials can improve comfort and fit)
FAQs: Gum Disease & Implants
Can implants get gum disease?
Not exactly, but they can develop peri-implantitis, a similar inflammatory condition—another reason maintenance is essential.
How soon after gum disease treatment can I get implants?
It depends on how quickly your gums stabilise. For some patients, implants can be considered within a few months.
Are implants more likely to fail if I’ve had gum disease?
The risk is slightly higher, but with stabilised gums, good oral hygiene, and regular monitoring, many patients enjoy long-term success.
Will I need more frequent hygiene visits?
Yes. Most patients with a history of gum disease benefit from hygiene visits every 3–4 months.
Final Thoughts
Having gum disease doesn’t automatically rule out dental implants. With expert planning, periodontal support, and consistent home care, implants can still be a reliable solution for many patients.
For pricing guidance, see our detailed guide: How Much Do Dental Implants Cost in the UK [2025 Guide].
