About peri-implantitis treatments
Dental implants are among the modern solutions that can safely replace lost teeth. However, as with any treatment, some complications may develop in implant applications. One of these, peri-implantitis, is a serious infection that causes inflammation in the gum and bone tissues surrounding the implant.
Peri-implantitis usually occurs due to inadequate oral and dental health. Adequate oral hygiene and professional dental cleaning at least twice a year can prevent and treat this disease. If peri-implantitis is not recognised early, it can lead to consequences such as the loss of the implant. Therefore, early diagnosis and effective treatment of peri-implantitis are of extreme importance.
What is peri-implant mucositis?
Peri-implant mucositis is an inflammation of the soft tissues around the implant and is the early stage of peri-implant disease. It usually occurs due to bacterial plaque accumulation and can be prevented with regular oral hygiene. It causes symptoms such as redness, bleeding and tenderness.
Peri-implant mucositis can be a sign of more serious problems that can lead to implant loss. However, correct interventions at this stage ensure the health and life of the implant. You can keep this silent problem under control by paying attention to your oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly.
What causes peri-implantitis?
The main cause of peri-implantitis is bacterial plaque that accumulates around the implant. Over time, these plaques damage the gum tissue and can progress to the bone if left untreated. However, not only poor oral hygiene, but also different factors can lead to this condition: So what else causes this condition?
Other risk factors that we know increase the risk of developing peri-implantitis are:
Smoking
Tobacco use reduces the amount of blood reaching the gums and reduces the healing capacity of the tissues. In addition, plaque accumulation occurs more quickly in individuals who smoke, which increases the risk of infection.
Diabetes and immune problems
Healing is delayed in uncontrolled diabetic patients or individuals with suppressed immune systems. This makes it difficult to control the inflammation around the implant.
Improper implant placement
Placing the implant in an area with insufficient bone support or in an angular manner can cause the surrounding tissues to be stressed. This facilitates the inflammatory process.
Overload and bruxism
Chewing hard foods or clenching teeth (bruxism) during the night puts extra load on implants. This can lead to microscopic cracks and gaps where bacteria can settle.
Restoration errors
If the crowns placed on the implant are not compatible, irritation and inflammation may develop in the area. This is another factor that increases the risk of infection.
Neglecting routine check-ups
Neglecting the check-up appointments recommended by your dentist can cause problems at the initial stage to progress without being noticed. However, regular follow-up plays a critical role in preventing peri-implant diseases.
What are the signs of peri-implantitis?
Peri-implantitis can be difficult to detect in the early stages because it is usually painless. However, there are some warning signs to watch out for:
- Redness and swelling around the gums,
- Bleeding or pus discharge around the implants,
- Bad taste or odor around the implants,
- Gum recession and visibility of the implant screw,
- Movement of the implant (in advanced stages).
When these symptoms are seen, it is necessary to see a dentist without delay.
Peri-implantitis stages
1. Initial stage (Peri-implant mucositis)
- Redness and slight swelling of the gums
- No pain usually
- Can be completely cured with regular cleaning
2. Advanced inflammation
- Increased swelling and tenderness
- May be painful while chewing
- Bone loss begins (can be seen on X-ray)
3. Advanced peri-implantitis
- Severe osteoporosis
- Loosening of the implant
- Inflammation and foul odor
- Increased pain and discomfort
- Implant can be saved if treated early.
The result of this stage is implant loss and failure. The implant loses its support tissue. Removal of the implant and bone repair may be required. Otherwise, preparation for a new implant is made.
What are peri-implantitis treatments?
Peri-implantitis is a serious condition in which the infection around the implant must be controlled. Treatment options vary depending on the stage and severity of the disease. Specialist dentists usually achieve effective results by combining several methods.
Mechanical debridement
Mechanical debridement involves cleaning the implant surface and surrounding plaque and tartar with special tools. In this procedure, which is performed under local anesthesia, carbon or resin-tipped curettes and ultrasonic instruments are used. However, mechanical cleaning alone may not be enough to completely eliminate the infection.
Antiseptic treatment
Antiseptic treatment is usually recommended in addition to mechanical cleaning. The most commonly used antiseptic substance is chlorhexidine gluconate; your dentist may recommend regular mouthwash for 3-4 weeks. Antiseptic application helps reduce inflammation around the implant and prevent bacterial growth. As a side effect, slight stains may occur on the tooth surfaces.
Antibiotic treatment
In more advanced cases, antibiotic treatment is used. This treatment aims to control the infection with drugs specifically targeting gram-negative anaerobic bacteria. It is usually applied in the final stage of non-surgical treatment and supports the patient's recovery.
Implant removal
In cases of severe peri-implantitis or when there is no response to non-surgical methods, surgical intervention may be inevitable. During this process, the patient's implant is removed and the infected soft tissue and bone tissue are cleaned, and if necessary, support is provided with bone grafts or regenerative procedures. Surgical treatment also aims to shape the tissues around the implant and permanently control the infection. The recovery process varies from person to person, but can last up to six months.
How to prevent peri-implantitis?
The longevity and health of dental implants are possible not only with successful surgical application but also with proper care and maintenance. For a good implant experience, choosing an expert and experienced physician is the first and most important step. Proper planning and a professional approach prevent most potential problems from occurring in the first place.
Also, it is essential to pay attention to daily oral hygiene to protect the tissues around the implant. You can prevent plaque formation without damaging your implant by using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Gently brushing your teeth at least twice a day prevents bacteria from multiplying.
In addition, daily dental floss is of great importance to clean bacteria and plaque accumulated around the implant. Microorganisms accumulated around the gum line increase the risk of peri-implantitis if regular cleaning is not done.
Finally, antimicrobial, alcohol- and bleach-free mouthwashes should be preferred. Such mouthwashes reduce the risk of infection without damaging the implant tissue and maintain the balance of the oral flora.
Remember, prevention is always easier and less costly than treatment.
Conclusion
Peri-implantitis is a serious condition that threatens implant health and early diagnosis and effective treatment are of great importance. As Medical Dental Turkey, we prevent these complications by providing professional care and advanced treatment methods especially for implant patients. In our dental clinic in Antalya, where technology and experience are combined, it is possible to reduce the risk of peri-implantitis and prolong the life of your implants with regular checks and proper oral hygiene. Remember, preventive approaches are always more effective than treatment for a healthy smile.
FAQs
How to treat peri implantitis at home?
Daily oral and dental care is essential to treat peri-implantitis at home. It is important to brush the teeth regularly at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush without damaging the implants.
Daily flossing is also recommended to remove bacteria around the implant, which reduces the chance of infection. In addition, antiseptic mouthwashes that do not contain alcohol, bleach and harsh chemicals help to keep the oral microflora in balance by protecting the implant tissue.
How common is peri implantitis?
Peri-implantitis is one of the most common oral health problems among those with dental implants. In general, approximately 20-28% of implant users develop this condition. The prevalence can vary depending on the group examined and the definition of the disease. The risk of peri-implantitis is especially high in smokers, those with chronic diseases such as diabetes, and those who neglect regular dental check-ups.
Is peri-implantitis reversible?
Peri-implantitis can be treated and its progression can be stopped, but it is not possible to reverse it completely in every case. When the disease is detected in the early stages, the process can be reversed with deep cleaning and antibacterial treatments. In advanced stages, surgical intervention and bone repair may be necessary. Therefore, regular dental check-ups and early intervention are very important.