Quick Answer: Dental implants have a high success rate with proper care, but problems can occur if you don't maintain them. Peri-implantitis is an infection similar to periodontal disease that attacks the gums and bone supporting your dental implant. Left untreated, it can eventually cause implant loss. Fortunately, you can prevent this condition by mitigating risk factors and following your implant dentist’s hygiene guidelines. Surgical options can treat some advanced cases.
Learn About Peri-implantitis
Peri-implant diseases are inflammatory conditions affecting the tissue and bone supporting dental implants. They start in the same way as gum disease around a natural tooth: with bacterial buildup on the implant’s base. Plaque bacteria become tartar (calculus) and release waste products that inflame the gum tissue. As the condition progresses, it also affects the bone around the implant anchor.
Risk Factors for Peri-Implantitis
Inadequate oral hygiene and a lack of implant maintenance are two of the most common causes of this disorder. Smoking or other tobacco use can contribute, since nicotine impairs blood flow to the gums and other parts of the body. If you have diabetes that has become uncontrolled, your implants are at greater risk. Finally, if you had periodontal disease before receiving your new dental implant, you are at a significantly higher risk for peri-implant conditions.
Stages of Peri-Implant Diseases
Peri-implant diseases progress in two stages:
Stage 1: Peri-Implant Mucositis
Peri-implant mucositis is the beginning stage of peri-implantitis. Similar to gingivitis, it inflames the gums but has not yet affected the bone. If we catch and treat peri-implant mucositis early on, it may be reversible with professional intervention and excellent oral hygiene.
Stage 2: Peri-Implantitis
If peri-implant mucositis progresses without treatment, it will begin to attack the bone surrounding your dental implant anchor. The bone softens and breaks down to the point where it can no longer support the implant. Peri-implantitis must receive surgical treatment in most cases, but all hope is not lost. The earlier you inform us you have symptoms, the faster we can begin work to save your implant.
Symptoms to Watch For
These symptoms progress from mild to severe. If you have any of these signs, please call us quickly for an evaluation so we can attempt to preserve your dental implant:
- Red, swollen gums around the implant site
- Bleeding during brushing or flossing that continues past the initial healing stage
- Discharge, pus, or a bad taste in your mouth near the implant
- Measured deepening of periodontal pockets around the implant when we examine your mouth
- Pain when biting down
- Pressure or tenderness around the implant site
- A strange sensation that some patients with peri-implantitis feel when biting
- Implant movement in your jawbone
- Complete implant loss
Simple Steps You Can Take to Prevent This Condition
While peri-implantitis and its related conditions are daunting, taking proper care of your teeth, gums, and implant sites can prevent most cases from resulting in implant loss. Be diligent about brushing and flossing around your dental implants, following our instructions.
Keep every scheduled dental appointment and report any potential symptoms of infection or inflammation quickly. The sooner you receive treatment for this serious condition, the more likely we will be able to restore the health of your implant.
Protect Your Oral Health and Your Investment Through Proper Dental Implant Care
We understand that a dental implant represents a significant investment in time and money. It is in your best interest to take excellent care of your implant to justify the lengthy process and cost of the prosthetic. If you have any concerns about caring for your implants, we are happy to answer questions at any time. We want you to succeed and to enjoy your beautiful new smile for decades to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
Why is flossing such an essential part of preventing peri-implant conditions?
Flossing can prevent peri-implantitis and also help prevent standard periodontal disease. Flossing helps remove plaque deposits between teeth and below the gumline before they harden into calculus. If you skip flossing, you also put yourself at a greater risk of tooth decay and bad breath.
Can my implant be saved if I have advanced peri-implantitis?
The sooner you make an appointment, the better your chance of saving your implant. If the bone is not yet involved or has only minor damage, we can clean and disinfect the implant. We may also use local antibiotics.
What about surgical options?
Surgery can help many patients with this condition. You may need flap surgery, a procedure where a flap of gum tissue is lifted to access the bone and dental implant. The surgeon removes infected tissue and cleans and disinfects the area. You may need a bone graft procedure to add healthy new bone tissue.
How will I know if peri-implantitis has gone too far and I need my implant removed?
We will do everything we can to save your implant, but in certain cases, the damage is too severe to repair. Signs that could indicate implant removal is the best course of action include:
- Infection or visible pus
- Pain that recurs
- Periodontal pockets deeper than 6 mm in the implant area
- Bone loss that does not respond to treatment
Can I get another implant after my original one had to be removed?
We would recommend mitigating your risk factors (quitting smoking, oral hygiene problems, controlling blood sugar) before trying again. The success rate for a replacement implant is often lower. You may prefer a prosthetic like a partial denture or bridge.
At Metrowest Prosthodontics, we care about you and the continued health of your dental implants. If you notice any of the symptoms described above or have other questions about ensuring the longevity of your implants, please contact us today. We’re here to help!