Can Dental Implants Really Fail?
Dental implants are one of the most permanent and health-benefiting tooth restoration solutions in dentistry today. Unfortunately, dental implants are not immune to problems and are at a greater risk of failing when influenced by certain factors such as systemic diseases, poor oral hygiene, tobacco use and smoking, and bruxism. This failing, known as peri-implantitis, is characterized by inflammation of the gums and loss of bone around the dental implant post. A progressive condition, peri-implantitis can eventually result in completely failing dental implants and substantial jaw bone loss. At the first sign of peri-implantitis, tender or bleeding gums around the implant site, seek care at our office!
Treating Failing Dental Implants
The beginning stage, peri-implant mucositis, can be treated with conservative debridement and decontamination of bacteria buildup at the site. For the more advanced stage of peri-implantitis, we perform more complex surgical treatment in order to save the dental implant. This treatment involves a thorough cleaning and sanitation of the area under them gum line, along with removal of any inflamed or diseased gum tissue. If bone loss has occurred around the implant, bone grafting can restore stability to the dental implant post. Post-surgical care may require more frequent maintenance visits to ensure the condition does not return or worsen.
Symptoms of peri-implantitis can include:
- Red, inflamed gum tissue
- Deep pockets around dental implants
- Bleeding, tender gums
- Exposure of implant post
- Bone loss at the site
- Loosening of the implant
- Presence of pus
- Gum recession
Comprehensive, Effective Surgical Treatment
Signs and symptoms of peri-implantitis in its earliest stage may be subtle, and require an experienced eye to detect these signs before substantial damage occurs. Dr. Aaron Quitmeyer, our board-certified oral surgeon, is experienced in the surgical aspects of dental implants, along with effectively and comprehensively treating complications such as peri-implantitis. As a member of the prestigious Academy of Osseointegration, he has access to a network of clinicians and education all dedicated to providing excellence in implant dentistry and upholding the highest possible standard of surgical and clinical care. Along with educating you on the treatment process, we will also provide insight into why these symptoms might be occurring so that measures can be taken to help ensure that the condition does not return in the future.