Dental implants are a popular and effective way to restore your smile, but they need proper care to last a lifetime. One condition that can affect them is peri-implantitis. This guide explains what it is, what to look for, and how you can protect your investment in your oral health.
It’s a condition that affects the tissues around a dental implant, causing inflammation and potential damage. Peri-implantitis is an infection that causes inflammation in the gum tissue and bone loss around a dental implant, which can risk its stability. Knowing how to care for your implant can help you avoid this problem and keep your smile healthy for years to come.
A Simple Look at Peri-Implantitis & Its Early Stage
Think of peri-implantitis as a type of gum disease that targets dental implants. It starts with mild inflammation in the surrounding gums. If this inflammation isn’t addressed, it can lead to more serious issues that affect the foundation of your implant.
How It Affects Your Dental Implant
This condition causes inflammation in the gum tissue and gradual bone loss around the implant post. This loss of bone can weaken the implant’s support system. Over time, this may make the implant unstable or loose.
What Is Peri-Implant Mucositis?
Peri-implant mucositis is the first and mildest stage of the disease. It’s similar to gingivitis for natural teeth and involves red, swollen gums around the implant. The good news is that this stage is often reversible with professional care and improved at-home oral hygiene.
Common Causes & Risk Factors
Several factors can contribute to the development of peri-implantitis. When you know the risks, you’re better equipped to help keep your implant healthy. Your daily habits and overall health play a big part in your long-term success.
The Role of Oral Hygiene
The main cause of peri-implantitis is bacteria from plaque that builds up around the implant. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and implants. A consistent routine of brushing and flossing is your first line of defence against infection.
Lifestyle & Health Factors
A history of gum disease, smoking, or unmanaged diabetes can increase your risk and affect your body’s ability to fight infection and heal properly. Open communication with your dental team helps them create a care plan that fits your needs.
Other Potential Contributors
Sometimes, issues like a poorly fitting crown or excess dental cement left below the gumline can cause problems. These situations can create small areas where bacteria collect. This makes cleaning more difficult and can contribute to inflammation.
Signs You Should Not Ignore
Early detection makes treatment much more straightforward and effective. If you have a dental implant, pay close attention to the health of the surrounding gums. Contact your Markham dentist if you notice any of these signs:
- Red, tender, or swollen gums around the implant
- Bleeding when you brush or floss
- A bad taste or persistent bad breath
- Pus or discharge from the gumline
- Pain when you chew
- The feeling that your implant is loose or wobbly
Treatment Options at Your Markham Dental Office
If you have signs of peri-implantitis, we have ways to help manage it. The goal is to stop the infection and halt any bone loss. Your treatment will depend on how far the condition has progressed.
Non-Surgical Approaches for Early Stages
For early-stage peri-implantitis, treatment may involve a special deep cleaning around the implant to remove plaque and tartar. This procedure is more thorough than a standard cleaning and targets the area below the gumline. Your dentist may also recommend an antimicrobial mouth rinse to help control bacteria at home.
When Surgery May Be an Option
In more advanced cases, a surgical procedure may be an option. This could involve gently lifting the gum tissue to get better access for cleaning the implant surface. If significant bone loss has occurred, a bone graft may be discussed to help rebuild support for the implant.
In severe cases, however, not all implants can be saved. When the infection has progressed too far or too much bone has been lost, your dentist may recommend removing the implant entirely. In these situations, treatment often includes cleaning the area, rebuilding the bone with a graft, and planning for a new implant once the site has healed.
How You Can Protect Your Dental Implants
Prevention is the best approach to keep your dental implants healthy for life. A combination of great at-home habits and professional support is key. Your Markham dentists are here to partner with you in maintaining your oral health.
Your At-Home Care Routine
It’s essential to follow proper brushing and flossing techniques. Pay special attention to cleaning around the base of your implant where it meets the gumline. Tools like water flossers, interdental brushes, or implant-specific floss can be effective at removing plaque from hard-to-reach spots.
The Importance of Regular Professional Cleanings
Routine visits to your dentist are just as important as your home care. Professional cleanings remove hardened plaque that you can’t get with a toothbrush alone. These appointments also allow your dental team to check the health of your implant and catch any early signs of trouble.
Your dental implants are a valuable part of your smile, and taking care of them is straightforward with the right routine and support. At Markham Dental Smiles, our friendly team is here to help you maintain your oral health with personalized and comfortable care. If you have questions about your implants or want to schedule a check-up, contact us today.
