What is Peri-Implantitis?

Peri-implantitis is a gum infection that occurs around a dental implant characterized by an accumulation of oral bacteria that become trapped between the gum tissue and the implant. Similar to the way periodontal disease will affect natural teeth, peri-implantitis will affect dental implants. Typically it will cause bleeding, inflammation, gum recession and bone loss around the implant site.

Risk Factors of Peri-Implantitis

• Genetics
• Smoking
• History of periodontal disease
• Diabetes
• Poor oral hygiene
• Tooth grinding

Diagnosis and Treatment of Peri-Implantitis

Early diagnosis and treatment of peri-implantitis is crucial to eliminate the infection and restore the health of the mouth. Recent studies have shown a link between peri-implantitis and cardiovascular disease as well as an increased risk for stroke and certain types of cancer. Left untreated, peri-implantitis can also result in implant failure which may require removal and replacement.

Peri-implantitis can be treated surgically as well as with a laser. Using laser therapy, Drs. Nemeth and Katranji can remove diseased tissue around the dental implant to promote new bone growth and help save the implant. Implant replacement can be both timely and costly which is why it is most ideal to treat the infection.

According to a 2016 survey, only 5% of periodontists offered treatment for peri-implantitis. The periodontists at Joseph R. Nemeth DDS & Associates are part of that small group of distinguished professionals.