Dealing With Implant Failure? Don’t Give Up Yet! 

Dental implants have revolutionized the field of restorative dentistry, offering a durable and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. However, like any medical procedure, complications can arise. One such complication is peri-implantitis, a condition that can lead to implant failure if left untreated. 

At Wright Perio & Implants, Dr. Raymond L. Wright Jr. and our San Clemente team are committed to helping patients understand and address this issue.

What Is Peri-implantitis?

Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the soft and hard tissues surrounding dental implants. It’s characterized by inflammation of the gum tissue and progressive loss of supporting bone around the implant.

Causes of Peri-implantitis

Several factors can contribute to the development of peri-implantitis:

• Bacterial Infection: Similar to periodontal disease, bacterial buildup can lead to infection around the implant.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate cleaning allows bacteria to thrive.
• Smoking: This habit significantly increases the risk of peri-implantitis.
• Systemic Diseases: Conditions like diabetes can affect healing and increase susceptibility to infection.
• Occlusal Overload: Excessive biting forces on the implant can cause tissue damage.

Signs and Symptoms of Peri-implantitis

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to contact Dentist Dr. Raymond L. Wright Jr. at (949) 361-4867:

• Gum inflammation and bleeding
• Pain or discomfort around the implant
• Visible recession of the gum line
• Implant mobility

Diagnosis of Peri-implantitis

At Wright Perio & Implants, we employ a comprehensive approach to diagnose peri-implantitis:

Clinical Examination

Dentist Dr. Raymond L. Wright Jr. will visually inspect the implant site for signs of inflammation, redness, swelling, or pus. We’ll also check for implant mobility, which could indicate bone loss.

Radiographic Assessment

We use advanced imaging techniques, including digital X-rays and sometimes cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), to evaluate bone loss around the implant. These images allow us to see the extent of bone deterioration and help plan appropriate treatment.

Probing Depth Measurements

Using a special dental probe, we measure the depth of the pocket between the gum and the implant. Healthy implants typically have a probing depth of 3 mm or less. Deeper pockets can indicate peri-implantitis and bone loss.

Prevention Strategies For Peri-implantitis

Preventing peri-implantitis is crucial for the longevity of your implant. We recommend the following strategies:

• Maintaining Excellent Oral Hygiene: This includes brushing at least twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing daily, and using interdental brushes or water flossers to clean around the implant. We can demonstrate proper techniques during your visit.
• Attending Regular Check-ups: We recommend visits to our San Clemente office every three to six months for professional cleaning and examination. These visits allow us to detect and address any issues early.
• Quitting Smoking: Smoking significantly increases the risk of peri-implantitis. We can provide resources and support to help you quit.
• Managing Systemic Health Conditions: Conditions like diabetes can affect implant health. We work closely with your primary care physician to ensure optimal management of these conditions.

Treatment Options For Peri-implantitis

If peri-implantitis is diagnosed, there are a range of treatment options to choose from, including:

Non-surgical Approaches

• Professional Cleaning: We use specialized instruments to remove plaque and calculus from the implant surface.
• Antimicrobial Therapy: This may include local application of antibiotics or antimicrobial mouth rinses to control bacterial infection.

Surgical Approaches

• Open Flap Debridement: This involves lifting the gum tissue to thoroughly clean the implant surface and remove infected tissue.
• Regenerative Procedures: Dentists may use bone grafts or growth factors to encourage new bone formation around the implant.
• Implant Surface Decontamination: Various methods, including mechanical, chemical, or laser treatments, are used to clean and sterilize the implant surface.

Emerging Treatments For Peri-implantitis

At Wright Perio & Implants, Due to the advancements made in dental technology, there have been emerging treatment options for peri-implantitis, such as:

• Laser Therapy: Certain lasers can effectively remove infected tissue and sterilize the implant surface with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
• Photodynamic Therapy: This involves applying a light-sensitive drug to the infected area and activating it with a specific wavelength of light to kill bacteria.
• Use of Growth Factors and Biologics: These substances can stimulate and accelerate tissue healing and bone regeneration around the implant.

Prognosis and Long-term Management

Early intervention significantly improves the prognosis of peri-implantitis. After initial treatment, we develop a personalized maintenance plan, which may include more frequent professional cleanings, the use of specific oral hygiene products, and regular monitoring of implant health.

When to Consider Implant Removal

In severe cases, implant removal may be necessary. This is typically considered when:

• Extensive Bone Loss: If more than 50 percent of the bone supporting the implant is lost, removal may be the best option.
• Persistent Infection: If the infection doesn’t respond to treatment and continues to progress, removing the implant may be necessary to prevent further bone loss and infection spread.
• Significant Implant Mobility: This usually indicates severe bone loss and failure of osseointegration, necessitating implant removal.

At Wright Perio & Implants, we exhaust all treatment options before considering implant removal. If removal is necessary, we discuss replacement options with you, which may include placing a new implant after healing or exploring alternative restorative solutions.

Learn How To Preserve Your Dental Implants, Call Now!

Peri-implantitis is a serious condition, but with proper care and early intervention, it can often be successfully managed. At Wright Perio & Implants, we’re dedicated to helping our patients maintain healthy smiles for life.

If you have concerns about your dental implants or would like to schedule a check-up, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (949) 361-4867 or visit our website at Wright Perio & Implants. Your oral health is our priority, and we’re here to help you achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile.