Created 3/7/2019
Updated 12/15/2023
The
dental implants
are one of the safest and most advanced techniques to replace lost teeth or molars. The constant development of new materials and technologies has placed this discipline at the top of the replacement treatments.
The risks or side effects associated with implants are minimal. However, as with any type of intervention, adverse reactions may occasionally occur. On this occasion we are going to talk about peri-implantitis: what it is, how it occurs and what we can do if it occurs.
Our
experts in dental implants in Barcelona
explain in this article everything you need to know about peri-implantitis.
What is peri-implantitis?
Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory process that can occur after the placement of dental implants. This inflammation affects the tissues surrounding the dental implant and, if left untreated, can end up destroying part of the new bone tissue that has been generated to integrate the prosthesis.
Destruction of the bone surrounding the implant may cause its loss, as well as suppuration and pain.
Causes of peri-implantitis
There are different factors associated with dental implant rejection. If the patient is suitable for the placement of these, the risks of occurrence are minimal. However, we can look at some of the most common causes of peri-implantitis:
- Presence of bacterial plaque, either due to inadequate hygiene or contamination at the time of implant placement. One of the main causes is the presence of bacterial plaque, which may be the result of inadequate oral hygiene or contamination during the implant placement process. Maintaining good daily hygiene, using special products and tools for people with implants, and regular visits to the dental clinic for professional cleaning can help prevent plaque build-up.
- Malocclusion or overload, in addition, malocclusion or overload can be another cause of peri-implantitis. This may occur because of poor placement of the new tooth or because the patient has lost the habit of biting correctly in the affected area. It is important that the implant is properly placed and that the patient recovers proper chewing function to avoid complications. due to poor placement of the new tooth or because the person has lost the habit of biting on the affected area and does not do it correctly.
- Poor bone quality, thequality of the mandibular bone can also influence implant rejection. If the bone is not strong enough or does not have a good density, there is an increased risk of peri-implantitis. A specialist will evaluate the quality of the bone before proceeding with the implant placement.
- Harmful habits such as smoking,some harmful habits such as smoking can increase the risk of peri-implantitis. Smoking can affect blood circulation and weaken the immune system, which can hinder healing and increase susceptibility to infection.
While these are some of the common factors, it is important to remember that each case is unique and it is essential to have the advice and attention of a professional specialized in dental implants. Maintaining good oral hygiene, following the specialist’s instructions and leading a healthy lifestyle are key measures to prevent peri-implantitis and ensure the long-term success of dental implants.
Symptoms of peri-implantitis
The first symptoms noticed by a person suffering from peri-implantitis are usually redness and inflammation around the area where the implant has been placed.
This pathology should not be confused with mucositis, since the latter only affects the soft tissues. However, if left untreated, it can lead to peri-implantitis that can jeopardize the integrity of the implant.
Depending on the stage of the process, we may experience the following symptoms:
- Reddening of the gum around the implant.
- Edema in the surrounding tissues.
- Suppuration.
- Slight bleeding.
- Pain when chewing.
- Implant mobility.
- General malaise.
If we notice any anomaly after the placement of one or more implants, we should promptly consult our dentist. After observing the symptoms, an X-ray will be taken to check the condition of the screw and whether any bone loss has occurred. The sooner we act, the better chance we have of saving the implant.
What are the tips to avoid peri-implantitis?
Proper care of dental implants is crucial to their long-term success. Following the guidelines provided by your dentist and regular check-ups are essential steps to prevent complications, including peri-implantitis. It is important to follow the maintenance routine recommended by your dentist to ensure the health and longevity of your implants.
Regular check-ups allow your dentist to monitor the condition of your implants and identify any potential problems early on. If you notice any irregularities or discomfort, it is important to tell your dentist immediately.
By maintaining open communication with your dentistand being attentive to your oral health, you can help prevent the development of peri-implantitis and ensure the continued success of your dental implants.
What can peri-implantitis lead to?
Peri-implantitis can cause a variety of problems, which may include destruction of the bone surrounding the implant, resulting in bone loss, discharge and discomfort. Depending on the stage of the condition, individuals may also experience additional symptoms such as redness of the gum around the implant, swelling of the surrounding tissues, discharge, slight bleeding, pain when chewing, implant mobility and general discomfort.
These symptoms indicate compromised gingival health and the possible consequences of infection on the stability of the prosthesis. It is critical to address peri-implantitis promptly to prevent further complications and ensure the long-term success of the implant.
Treatment of peri-implantitis
Until relatively recently, it could only be cured after removal of the implant. This caused the discomfort of losing the tooth again and it was unlikely to be able to place it again, having to resort to another type of prosthesis.
However, advances in implantology research now offer other alternatives for healing peri-implantitis without necessarily having to remove the implant.
As we said, in order to save the new tooth, prompt action is essential.
- Treatment to remove bacterial plaque from the implant surface.
- Treatment on the bone to eliminate the bacteria that have produced the infection and reduce inflammation.
- Curettage of lesions that can necrotize the bone.
- Application of materials and techniques that allow regeneration of damaged bone.
By means of these procedures, the disease can be slowed down. If this was not too advanced, it will not be necessary to remove the implant, but it is something that our implantologist should evaluate.
For this and other reasons, proper maintenance of dental implants is so important. We must follow our dentist’s guidelines and attend the established check-ups. In addition, if we observe any irregularities, we must also report them immediately.
If you have any discomfort or any doubt about your implants, do not hesitate to call us. Our team of
implantology
is at your service in our
dental clinic in Barcelona
and the
dental clinic in Ibiza
. At the first inconvenience,
contact us.
At IMOI Barcelona and IMOI Ibiza, we follow editorial principles that guarantee the authenticity of all the information we disseminate. If you are interested in learning more about how we ensure that our content is always up-to-date and accurately supported, we invite you to review our editorial commitment.
This article has been supervised by Dr. Ferran Novell Costa and Dra. Erjona Demiraj, specialists in Dental Health and Dental Aesthetics treatments. Responsible for the treatments provided at IMOI Barcelona and IMOI Ibiza and for the supervision and/or updating of the contents of this blog entry. (7/11/2023). The recommendations described are not generic and do not replace the diagnosis and evaluation of a professional in a dental office. If you want us to clarify any aspect or you want a personalized diagnosis and advice we recommend you to come to our dental clinics.
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