What Is Peri-Implantitis Treatment?
As mentioned in the Implant Therapy section, dental implants have an extremely high success rate (95-99%) when placed by trained clinicians. However, they can develop problems. While implants do not decay like natural teeth, they can suffer from peri-implantitis, which is analogous to periodontitis of a natural tooth. Peri-implantitis is the loss of bone support around the implant due to a low grade chronic inflammation associated with dental plaque, the bacterial biofilm that causes cavities and periodontal disease. Due to the implant being a foreign body, it has minimal to no resistance to this inflammation, and it has been shown that they can have up to 3x as much bone loss as teeth with the same amount of plaque.
Importance of Early Diagnosis
Destructive Nature: Peri-implantitis can progress quickly, leading to substantial bone loss around the implant. This destruction often occurs without noticeable symptoms in the early stages, making routine monitoring and early diagnosis essential.
Risk of Implant Loss: If left untreated, peri-implantitis can result in the need for implant removal, leading to additional costs, the need for bone grafting, and delays in the restoration of function and aesthetics.
Influence on Overall Oral Health: The presence of peri-implantitis can also affect adjacent teeth and periodontal health, making it critical to address not only the implant site but also the overall dental ecosystem.
