Peri-implant diseases are inflammatory conditions affecting the soft and hard gum tissues around dental implants. Analogous to a natural tooth, bacteria can build up on the base of the implant, below the gum line and cause infection to happen. In the early phases, the infection is restricted to the gum layer and often presents as bleeding, swollen and painful gums; a condition known as mucositis. However, left untreated, this can progress to the underlying bone layer causing an erosion or shrinkage of the bone surrounding the implant leading to the development of periimplantitis. In severe circumstances, peri-implantitis could lead to the eventual loss of the dental implant.

The management of peri-implantitis can often require a combination of conservative debridement (deep cleaning) of the affected implant surface, as well as, surgical procedures to rebuild the bone and gum volume around the implant. The use of antibiotics and antiseptics may be required in the management of this condition too.

One of the best ways to avoid running into peri-implantitis, is to subscribe to a regular implant maintenance program. This involves annual visits to our rooms to check the health of the implant and perform a clean to safeguard against the development of an infection and having further complications. After all, the cliché always rings true – prevention is better than cure.

Talk to us today about managing any complications around your dental implant and subscribing to a regular implant maintenance program.