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What is peri-implantitis and how does it affect dental implants?
Dental implants are an innovative procedure for replacing broken, damaged, decayed and missing teeth. The number of individuals who are considered ideal candidates for the treatment grows every day. While dental implants only continue to show long-term success, maintenance and regular check ups for dental implants are essential for preventing possible complications. It is important to be aware of the possible side effects and complications associated with dental implantation—including peri-implantitis.
Peri-implantitis is the term for inflammation around a dental implant, or for pathological changes of the tissue surrounding the implant. It is thought that bacteria in dental plaque causes peri-implantitis, and if left untreated, can result the loss of bone around dental implant and possible implant failure.
The three major risk factors for the development of peri-implantitis are genetic predisposition, smoking and a history of periodontitis. A consultation with your dentist prior to implantation will reveal whether you are at a higher risk for peri-implantitis.
Peri-implantitis Symptoms:
• Bleeding around the gum of the implant
• A loose implant
• Pus arising from the implant
Depending on the severity and nature of the inflammation, peri-implantitis is sub-classified into three groups:
Peri-Implant Mucositis - Soft tissue surrounding the implant becomes inflamed, as in gingivitis. It is usually reversible at this stage.
Marginal Peri-Implantitis - If peri-implant mucositis is not treated in time, progressive bone loss can occur in a process similar to that seen in parodontitis, which is usually only slightly reversible or not reversible at all. Marginal peri-implantitis can only be brought under control by surgery under certain circumstances.
Retrograde Peri-Implantitis - This is a special case that only occurs rarely. It is due to residual scar and granulation tissue and can be well controlled by curettage (removing tissue by scraping or scooping) of the affected area.
Treating Peri-implantitis
Treatment for peri-implantitis varies. It may require a simple cleaning around the dental implant with antibiotics or it may require a complex procedure, which may include surgical treatment. Your dentist will implement treatment strategies aimed at prevention of the loss of implant and stopping the progression of bone loss around the implant.
Find out more about peri-implantitis and other possible implant complications and see if this treatment is right for you.