Peri-Implantitis
The Problems With Peri-Implantitis and Dental Implants
Dental implants are commonly used to replace missing or diseased teeth whose placement by an experienced, board-certified periodontist or oral surgeon can provide patients with many years of satisfaction.
"I consider myself privileged to not only do what I love but also to improve the health of my patients. If you have any concerns about your oral health, please do not hesitate to contact my office. Treating periodontal disease starts with you."
Dental Implants look, feel, and function much like natural teeth but are subject to the same disease processes and risk factors as natural teeth. When people have a predisposition for periodontal disease, they are also more likely to experience dental implant complications. Other risk factors for peri-implantitis are smoking, diabetes, osteoporosis, patients undergoing radiation therapy, and improper implant placement. Oral disease’s primary antagonist is bacteria that persistently attempt to invade the supporting structures of both natural teeth and dental implants. Bacterial infection results in tissue inflammation and can eventually lead to bone loss. This condition might eventually cause tooth loss or implant failure. In the case of natural teeth, this advanced condition is called periodontitis. With dental implants it is called peri-implantitis.
Diagnosis of Peri-Implantitis
Peri-implantitis is commonly diagnosed with the following symptoms:
- Radiological evidence of bone loss
- Formation of a deeper implant gum pocket
- Bleeding, puss, and/or pain around the implant
- Swelling of tissues around the implant
- Movement of the implant
Treatment at Olde Naples Periodontics:
The treatment of peri-implantitis, both surgical and non-surgical, focuses on removing bacteria and infected tissue and the regeneration of bone loss. When there is no bone loss, treatment of peri-implantitis will commonly center on removing plaque and calculus (hardened tartar) through mechanical and ultrasonic debridement and hygiene intervention, both in the office and at home.
Advanced peri-implantitis is treated through surgical debridement to remove the infection and inflammation and bone grafting to regenerate the critical supporting areas around the implant.
When a dental implant must be removed, treatment focuses on restoring oral health while regenerating the bone defect in the jaw left after implant removal. This is accomplished with bone grafting.
Prevention is Key!
A continuous periodontal maintenance program is key in preventing peri-implantitis. Regular dental visits along with routine periodontal hygiene treatments multiple times per year serve as monitors for the signs of bacterial infection and inflammation that can lead to peri-implantitis. Early detection and treatment of peri-implantitis will increase the longevity and health of dental implants.
The treatment modalities for peri-implantitis vary. The experience level of the individual practitioner is a crucial factor for the success of dental implants and the treatment of complications that can occur after dental implants are placed.
Please contact my office for any concerns regarding your dental implants and any questions regarding your overall oral health.
Elevate Your Smile with Excellence at Olde Naples Periodontics:
Experience the pinnacle of dental care under the expert guidance of Dr. Gay at Olde Naples Periodontics. Our cutting-edge treatments, personalized approach, and warm environment ensure your journey to optimal oral health is one of comfort and confidence. Join us today at “1132 Goodlette Frank Rd N, Naples, Florida 34102” or call (239) 261-1401 to embark on a path towards a brighter, healthier smile.