Dental implants are an excellent solution for missing teeth, and thousands of people opt for this modern dental treatment every year. However, placing dental implants is a surgical procedure, and it’s essential to be aware of potential risks. One such risk is peri-implantitis. This insidious condition can cause significant problems if not treated promptly and properly. In this article, we explain what peri-implantitis is, how to prevent it, recognize it, and what treatments are available.
What is peri-implantitis?
Peri-implantitis is a severe infection around a dental implant that affects the surrounding bone and tissue. Similar to gum disease, this condition can lead to the loss of bone tissue and, ultimately, implant failure. Unlike a superficial gum infection, peri-implantitis is a destructive bacterial infection that systematically breaks down the bone tissue surrounding the implant.
How do you recognize peri-implantitis?
Peri-implantitis can be identified by several symptoms. The gum tissue around the implant may be painful, swollen, and prone to bleeding, especially when touched or brushed. Additionally, the implant might become loose, which is a clear warning sign.
You may also experience pain or increased sensitivity around the implant. In some cases, the gums may recede, exposing part of the implant. Finally, pus may discharge from the area around the implant, indicating an infection.
What causes peri-implantitis?
Research shows that the bacteria causing peri-implantitis are similar to those responsible for severe periodontitis. These bacteria form a biofilm that adheres to the implant’s surface. This biofilm gradually damages the surrounding tissue and bone.
Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing peri-implantitis. The most significant risk factors include:
- Poor oral hygiene, which allows bacteria to accumulate.
- Smoking, which reduces blood flow to the gums and hampers tissue healing.
- Diabetes, especially if poorly managed, as it lowers resistance to infections.
- Lack of regular dental check-ups, which means issues may go unnoticed.
- Genetic predisposition, which can increase susceptibility to inflammation.
How do you prevent peri-implantitis?
Preventing peri-implantitis requires a combination of good oral care, regular dental visits, and a healthy lifestyle. Here are the key steps you can take:
- Optimal oral hygiene: Maintain excellent oral care by brushing your teeth twice daily. Use floss and interdental brushes to clean the spaces between your teeth and around the implant thoroughly. Additionally, rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can help combat bacteria.
- Regular dental check-ups: Schedule dental check-ups at least twice a year. During these visits, your dentist can professionally clean your teeth and implants and detect any issues early.
- A healthy lifestyle: Quit smoking, as it negatively affects the health of your gums and implants. Manage chronic conditions like diabetes to improve your overall health and resistance to infections. Additionally, adopt a balanced and nutritious diet to keep your body and mouth healthy.
How do you treat peri-implantitis?
The treatment for peri-implantitis depends on the severity of the condition. Potential treatments include:
- Deep cleaning of the implant surface: Bacteria and biofilm are thoroughly removed to prevent further damage.
- Antibiotics: In some cases, a course of antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the bacterial infection.
- Surgical reconstruction: If the bone and gum tissue are severely damaged, surgery may be required to restore these structures.
- Implant removal: In very severe cases where the surrounding tissue and bone are irreparably damaged, the implant may need to be removed.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent serious complications. Don’t wait too long— consult your dentist immediately if you experience persistent pain, swelling, bleeding, or notice your implant feels loose.
Protect your implant from peri-implantitis with proper care!
Peri-implantitis can severely threaten the health of your dental implant and surrounding tissue. While it’s an insidious condition, there are clear warning signs, such as swollen or bleeding gums, pain, or a loose implant. By maintaining good oral hygiene, scheduling regular dental check-ups, and adopting a healthy lifestyle, you can significantly reduce the risk of peri-implantitis.
If you do notice signs of this condition, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can prevent significant damage and improve the likelihood of saving your implant. Your oral health is an investment in your overall well-being, so take good care of yourself and your implants!
Do you have questions about peri-implantitis or dental implants or are you looking for more information about your options? Take a look at our blog or contact specialist Doctor Frank Vanhove!
Doctor Frank Vanhove has more than 20 years of experience as an oral, maxillofacial and maxillofacial surgeon. Today he focuses exclusively on implantology. Dr. Frank Vanhove is the specialist in the field of dental prostheses and implants. He and his team place implants, a fixed and provisional dental bridge in one day. So you walk out the same day with a radiant smile.
