Peri Implantitis

Similar to gum disease, peri-implantitis is a disease of gum and bone tissue surrounding a dental implant. It may rapidly destroy the gum tissue and bone eventually leading to improper functioning dental implants thereby increasing their risk of failure. A proper evaluation and treatment by a periodontist are necessary to prevent and/or slow further damage.

Peri-implantitis is generally the result of incorrect maintenance and poor oral hygiene habits. Peri-implantitis, which begins with irritation and inflammation of the gum tissue, is the leading cause of implant failure and can lead to the loss of supporting bone and failing dental implants. Other reasons for dental implant failure are:

• Infection
• Bone loss
• Dental trauma
• Lack of integration with the jawbone

Contact us immediately if you have any of the following:

• Red, inflamed gum tissue
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Bone loss
• Gum recession
• Deepening periodontal pockets
• Dental implant mobility
• Pain or discomfort

Depending on the level of severity:

• In minor cases, nothing more than a thorough cleaning of the area is required.
• In the case of damaged bone, we remove the infected gum tissue, clean all areas of disease, and perform a bone grafting procedure to build up bone around the dental implant post. Once fully integrated, this new bone tissue can help re-stabilize the dental implant and save it from failing.
• When more in-depth care is required, a flap curettage, surgically removing the soft tissue lining which will promote more connective tissue attachment to the tooth, and recontours the bone. Your periodontist implements this painless and precise procedure to deliver the highest level of care.