Peri-implantitis is one of the few things that could cause your dental implants to fail. So if you’ve had dental implants in Leicester already fitted or you’re thinking about having them implanted this blog is super important for you to read.
What is Peri-implantitis?
Peri-implantitis actually has two differing forms – both of which are caused by the buildup of bacteria and plaque then subsequently tartar and both are capable of developing after you’ve had dental implants in Leicester fitted. The two types of peri-implantitis are;
Peri-implant mucositis is the first stage and much like early-stage gum disease can be treated and prevented by the upkeep of good oral hygiene practices. Visiting the team at Smile care dental for a quick deep clean with the hygienist should be enough to clear the area of any bacteria and infection.
Periodontitis occurs when peri-implantitis is left untreated and further action needs to be taken. Usually, by this stage, the infection has reached the bone and is causing decay and bone loss. And could even have resulted in your dental implants in Leicester being lost.
How to treat periodontitis
Firstly we hope of course that you will never reach this stage as you’ll have a good knowledge of how to take care of your implants partnered with regular trips to see us to check your progress so all of this is very much unlikely to occur.
In the very first stages, you will need to be treated with a deep clean of all your teeth and gums and then a selection of products will be used to decrease the number of bacteria around the infected area.
We will check the surgery site for any areas of cement from where the crowns were placed underneath the gums and around the implants. As frequently we find when this happens it’s due to cement being found in these areas.
After a further six weeks, we will invite you back to the practice to have a re-evaluation of the situation. If you are still bleeding, inflamed and there are no signs of improvement then we will need to look into a new plan. Perhaps further cleaning and another wait.
If after scanning it appears that there is significant bone loss, bleeding and pus then we could look to alternative therapies that are a little more complex.
In the first instance, we could offer you some antibiotics to help stop the infection and offer some control to the situation. If we then think the problem requires surgery we will look to operate. There are a few different surgical procedures that we would look into if we felt operating was the way forward. All of which would be discussed with you at great length.
How to avoid
Like most things when it comes to dental issues the way to avoid peri-implant disease is through consistent, detailed oral hygiene. If you are following excellent oral hygiene which includes correct brushing, flossing and regular check-ups then unless you are suffering a medical condition then it’s highly unlikely you will develop peri-implant disease.