Yes, a periodontist can do dental implants. In fact, this is an area of dentistry that fits very naturally with what periodontists do, as they have a particular focus on the gums, jawbone and other tissues that keep teeth firmly in place.
When you lose a tooth, replacing it is not simply a case of putting something where the tooth used to be. There needs to be enough healthy bone to support the implant and the gums around it need to be looked after too. This is one reason why a periodontist can be a good choice for implant treatment.
What Does A Periodontist Treat?
Periodontists specialise in the parts of your mouth that support your teeth. This includes the gums and the bone underneath them.
They commonly treat problems such as gum disease, gum recession and bone loss. They can also carry out procedures to rebuild or improve the gum and bone where needed.
Dental implants rely on these tissues. So, if someone has lost bone because of gum disease or has had a tooth missing for some time, a periodontist can assess what is happening beneath the surface before deciding how best to proceed.
Periodontists commonly treat problems such as gum disease, gum recession and bone loss.
Can A Periodontist Put In A Dental Implant?
Yes, periodontists are trained to place dental implants, as well as treating the gums and bone around them.
Before an implant is placed, the area will normally be assessed carefully. This may involve taking X rays or 3D scans to see how much bone is available and to look at the surrounding teeth and tissues.
Sometimes everything is ready for an implant straight away. In other cases, the bone or gums may need some attention first. This could involve treatment such as bone regeneration or a gum graft, depending on what is needed.
Taking care of these things beforehand can be an important part of giving the implant the right environment to heal.
Why Might A Periodontist Be Suitable For Implant Treatment?
A periodontist looks beyond the missing tooth itself. The health of the gums and supporting bone can make a significant difference to an implant, so having these areas assessed as part of the treatment can be particularly useful. This is especially relevant for people who have previously had gum disease or bone loss.
It also means that if a problem is found during the assessment, the periodontist can advise on how it should be managed rather than simply focusing on replacing the missing tooth.
Of course, not every implant case is complicated. Some people have good bone levels and healthy gums and may have a relatively straightforward treatment plan.
Is Dr Simon Stern A Dental Implant Specialist?
Dr Stern’s work combines periodontal treatment with implant dentistry, which means patients can have the condition of their gums and supporting bone considered alongside the planned implant treatment. The Perio Centre provides specialist periodontal and implant care from its Harley Street practice, with treatment planned around the individual rather than taking a one size fits all approach.
Dr Simon Stern is a Specialist Periodontist and an Implant Specialist at The Perio Centre in Harley Street, London
What Happens If You Need An Implant?
The first step is usually an examination and consultation. Your dentist or periodontist will look at the area where the tooth is missing and assess your general oral health.
Imaging may be needed to check the bone and determine where an implant could be placed. If the area is suitable, the implant can be inserted into the jaw and left to heal. Once it has integrated with the surrounding bone, the replacement tooth can be fitted.
For some people, additional treatment is needed before the implant can be placed. This is not unusual and does not necessarily mean that implants are not an option.
If you are considering dental implants and have concerns about your gums or bone, seeing a periodontist can be a sensible place to start. At The Perio Centre on Harley Street, Dr Stern brings his experience and expertise as both a Specialist Periodontist and Implant Specialist to the planning and delivery of implant treatment, helping patients understand their options and what may be involved in their particular case. Get in touch today to book an appointment!
Dr Simon Stern is a registered Specialist Periodontist at The Perio Centre. His qualifications include BDS MJDF RCS (Eng) MClinDent MPerio RCS (Ed). He lectures at both national and international conferences, and has published papers in several well-respected journals.
