​Peri-Implant Diseases

• Peri-implant diseases are caused by bacteria build-up on the dental implant surface
  
• This causes inflammation of the gums surrounding the implant. This is known as peri-implant mucositis
  

• If left untreated, mucositis can progress to a more severe condition called periimplantitis, where bone around the implant is lost. This condition is difficult to treat. Eventually, the implant becomes loose and has to be removed
  

An implant with extensive bone loss, which has to be removed

Who is at risk?

• Patients with poor oral hygiene
  
• Patients with gum disease (periodontitis)
  
• Patients who do not attend regular dental check-ups
  
• Patients who smoke
  

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What are the symptoms?

• Gums around the implant bleed easily
  
• Gum swellings
  
• Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
  
• Loosening of the implant
  

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How can I prevent it?

• Good oral hygiene at home is key to preventing periimplant diseases
  
• Regular dental check-ups after the implant is placed, especially if you have a history of gum disease
  - Periodic X-rays will be taken to monitor bone levels around the implant
  
• Quit smoking
  

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I have an implant diagnosed with peri-implant disease. What is the treatment?

For mild cases (peri-implant mucositis), self maintenance of good oral hygiene around your dental implant, as well as regular professional cleaning by your dentist/hygienist may be enough to control the disease

In severe cases where bone around the implant has been lost, additional gum surgery may be required. This may involve:    
- Bone grafting to reconstruct bone support which has been lost

Bone loss around an implant with a bony defect