Reviewed by Dr. Hardeep Dhaliwal
|
Reading time: three minutes
Dental implants are built to function like natural teeth and are intended to last for many years. Still, no implant is completely immune to complications. When changes develop in the gum tissue or bone surrounding an implant, they can quietly progress before noticeable symptoms appear.
Table of Contents
What Is Peri-Implantitis?
Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory disease that affects both the soft tissue and supporting bone around a dental implant. It is characterized by:
- Inflammation of the surrounding gum tissue
- Progressive bone loss around the implant
- Bleeding or suppuration (pus) on probing
It differs from peri-implant mucositis, which involves inflammation of the gum tissue only, without bone loss. Mucositis is considered reversible when treated early. Peri-implantitis involves bone loss and requires more advanced intervention.
What Causes Peri-Implantitis?
The primary cause of peri-implantitis is bacterial plaque accumulation around the implant surface. The process is similar to periodontitis around natural teeth.
Common contributing factors include:
- Inadequate oral hygiene
- History of periodontal disease
- Smoking
- Poorly controlled diabetes
- Excess cement around the restoration
- Improper implant positioning
- Occlusal overload (excessive bite forces)
Because implants do not have the same connective tissue attachment as natural teeth, infection can progress differently and sometimes more rapidly.
Signs And Symptoms Of Peri-Implantitis
Early detection is important because bone loss may not cause pain initially.
Common symptoms include:
- Redness or swelling of the gums around the implant
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad taste or drainage
- Gum recession around the implant
- Deepening pocket depths
- Loosening of the implant in advanced cases
Radiographs are typically used to confirm bone loss around the implant.
How Is Peri-Implantitis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves both clinical and radiographic evaluation.
Clinically, a provider may assess:
- Bleeding on probing
- Pocket depth measurements
- Drainage or pus around the implant
Radiographic imaging helps determine the extent of bone loss. Comparing current images to baseline images taken after implant placement allows accurate assessment.
Peri-Implantitis Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition.
Non-Surgical Management
In early stages, treatment may include:
- Professional mechanical debridement
- Antimicrobial therapy
- Improved home care
- Risk factor modification
Non-surgical treatment is generally more effective in cases limited to soft tissue inflammation.
Surgical Treatment
When bone loss is present, surgical intervention is often required. This may include:
- Open-flap debridement
- Implant surface decontamination
- Bone grafting procedures
- Regenerative techniques in select cases
The goal is to reduce infection, stabilize bone levels, and preserve the implant whenever possible.
Can Peri-Implantitis Be Prevented?
Prevention focuses on controlling plaque and monitoring implant health.
Preventive measures include:
- Consistent brushing and flossing
- Routine professional cleanings
- Regular implant evaluations
- Smoking cessation
- Management of systemic health conditions
Patients with a history of gum disease require especially close monitoring.
Advanced Implant Care At Adara Surgical Institute
At Adara Surgical Institute, dental implants are placed and monitored with careful planning and follow-up.
Dr. Hardeep Dhaliwal is a quadruple board-certified surgeon with more than 13 years of surgical experience. He evaluates implant positioning, bone support, and surrounding tissue health to reduce complications and promote long-term stability.
Known for meticulous technique and a patient-first approach, Dr. Dhaliwal prioritizes precise implant placement and long-term monitoring, which are critical factors in minimizing peri-implant disease risk.
Protecting The Long-Term Success Of Your Implant
Peri-implantitis is a serious but manageable condition when detected early. Inflammation around an implant should never be ignored, even if discomfort is minimal. If you notice bleeding, swelling, or changes around a dental implant, contact us for assessment.
To book a consultation at our oral surgery office in Issaquah, WA, call (425) 428-5888 or visit us at 6505 226th Pl SE STE #100 Issaquah, WA.
FAQs
Can a dental implant get infected?
The tissues surrounding a dental implant can become inflamed due to bacterial buildup. In early stages this is called peri-implant mucositis. If bone loss develops, it is classified as peri-implantitis.
Is peri-implantitis reversible?
Inflammation limited to the gum tissue may be reversible with early treatment. Once bone loss occurs, the condition requires more advanced intervention and cannot simply resolve on its own.
How do you know if an implant is failing?
Warning signs may include bleeding around the implant, swelling, gum recession, deep pockets, or mobility in advanced stages. Radiographs are often needed to confirm bone changes.
Can peri-implantitis cause implant failure?
Progressive bone loss can compromise implant stability. Early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve the chances of preserving the implant.
