Serious gum problem

[Maz]

I am a 49 diabetic (well controlled, non-smoker) with a serious gum problem. I have lost already few teeth and some are becoming loose. I had extensive "bridge work" (3)done about 12 years ago and lost one 2 years ago (due to gum problem) and a second one is wobly. Partial denture I had it made 2 years ago (on the NHS) is not functional now.

I need to consider my options with the teeth I still have (how to preserve them) and with missing ones (how to replace them) in order to be able to chew properly and to smile without feeling embarassed.

I would like to consider dental implants (if my gums permit this) and therefore would like to book a consultation. I had some Xrays of my jaw taken recently. Is it safe to have another one taken soon or I need to wait for some time? if so for how long, if not could I book an appointment as soon as possible, please?

Thanks

[Dr Vahid Motahar]

Hi,

Thank you for your question.

In your question although you have mentioned that you have diabetes and it is well controlled, you have not mentioned which type of diabetes it is. Judging from your age it is likely that you might be suffering from type I or insulin dependent diabetes.

It is well established that people who suffer from diabetes are very susceptible to periodontal disease which seems to be in your case. One of your advantages is that your sugar level is well controlled which is good. However even in these cases clinical findings show that you have a higher risk of failure than average. So you can have implants but you are at a higher risk of failure.

Before you can consider implant placement you must make sure that your gum disease is well controlled. It is not recommended to have implants in a mouth that has active periodontal disease which in your case will a second additional factor to increase your implant failure even much higher than usual. My suggestion would be to come and visit us for an assessment and then treatment for your gum disease with our periodontist and then considering the possibility of implants.

These days with advanced technologies in radiography, the dosage received is minimized. Having said this if you can bring your recent x-rays, it will be the best option otherwise new x-rays may be taken. We would be very happy to see you and further dicsuss your treatment needs and options.