What Every Dental Implants Patient Should Know About Peri-Implantitis

Implants have been a highly successful dental innovation over the last 30 years. They are known for being the next best thing to your own teeth.

Made of high-quality titanium and porcelain, dental implants won’t decay like natural teeth. But that doesn’t mean they are indestructible. Now dental experts are coming up against a new disease affecting implants patients – peri-implantitis.

What is peri-implantitis?

Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory disease that begins with bacterial infection around the implant. The infection causes inflammation of the gums and can lead to bone loss in the jaw. If the jawbone is affected, it can cause the implant to become unstable leading to failure.

Around 10,000 lower jaw implant procedures are done in the UK each year. And some studies suggest one-third of patients could be affected. So how can you make sure you’re not one of them?

Watch out for warning signs

Because bone loss is painless, so many people don’t realise they have peri-implantisis until it’s too late. That’s why you will need to keep a vigilant eye on your implants.

Peri-implantitis develops after a much milder disease called peri-implant mucositis. This disease is common and treatable. So if you spot the early warning signs and receive treatment, you should prevent peri-implantisis:

• Red, swollen gums
• Gums bleed when probed

How to prevent peri-implantitis

There are straightforward steps you can take to cut your chances of developing peri-implantitis:

Scrupulous oral hygiene
Follow a strict dental hygiene routine brushing at least twice a day, using mouthwash and flossing with interdental brushes. Your Perfect Pearls professional will be able to guide you on the best way to individually care for your implants.

Regular check-up appointments
Regular follow-up appointments after an implant are essential. You’ll need to visit your dentist as often as they recommend so they can spot any issues before they become serious.

The need for regular check-ups is a very good reason not to have your implants abroad. Lifelong maintenance and follow-up plays a key part in the success of your implant.

Give up smoking

Smoking is one of the main causes of implant failure. To give your implant the best chance of lasting for life, you’ll have to kick the habit.
For more information on dental implants, speak to the Perfect Pearls team on 01902 500 823