08.09.2026
Before the implant: the gums first
An implant needs bone, and bone needs surroundings free of inflammation. Where untreated periodontitis is present, the implant bed is colonised by the same bacteria that cost the natural tooth. The result is then called peri-implantitis, and it runs a faster course than periodontitis at a natural tooth.
The order is therefore the same in every recommendation: first heal the periodontitis and stabilise the findings, then implant, then attend aftercare for life. There is no exception to this – though there is often time pressure, and that is a poor adviser.
What that means for the planning: reckon with several months between the end of periodontal treatment and the procedure. That time is not a delay; it is part of the treatment.
The surgical and prosthetic questions about the implant itself are covered in full depth by our sister portal, the Implantat-Berater.