I had gum disease. My dentist did extra cleanings trying to fix it and save my teeth, to no avail. I lost several teeth. My dentist emphasized the importance of replacing those teeth before the others shifted. We talked about removable partial dentures and dental implants. I went with dental implants. I thought they’d be permanent, but now they’re loose and I’m worried I’m going to lose those, too. Can they be saved?

Stace P. – South Carolina

Stace,

I’m a little frustrated on your behalf. The biggest problem you’re facing seems to be your dentist. His decisions border on incompetence. When you have gum disease, he should never have allowed you to get dental implants. The gum disease needed to be dealt with first. Then, replacing your teeth would have a much better shot.

Other things should have been done to address your gum disease aside from simply doing more cleanings. I hope those were offered to you.

Going forward, I’d like you to see a periodontist. Maybe if the gum disease is quickly handled, there will be a chance at saving your dental implants. I’m not too optimistic, though. If you lose them, you’ll need to have some bone grafting done, then start the implant procedure over.

I feel strongly you’re a good candidate for a refund. Gum disease is contraindicative for dental implants. Your dentist knew better. He should give you your money back.

As far as implants themselves, if your teeth were healthy, your choice was correct. Yes, dentures are an option, but the prosthetic root of implants does a great deal for your oral and physical health, including protecting you from facial collapse. It’s worth the trouble to re-do the procedure (under the correct circumstances) if they can’t be saved.

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