Infection around an implant
Written by Dentist Rune Skou, 2008-19-12Last update: 2010-01-01
Infection around an implant
Periimplantitis is fundamentally the same condition as periodontitis, but occurs around an implant.
How it works:
When bacteria are allowed to remain on an implant and on the oral mucosa surrounding it, they cause gingivitis. If this becomes chronic, it can cause Periimplantitis to develop – leading the immune system to remove the bone in which the implant is rooted.
As bone is removed, the implant becomes looser and a deep pocket is formed. Once this pocket becomes uncleanable, the infection will develop until the implant falls out.
The body’s defence mechanisms:
The body is limited to letting the immune system kill bacteria around the implant via the saliva and oral mucosa.
Risk factors:
- Smoking
- Poor dental hygiene
- Genetic predisposition to periodontitis
- Diabetes
- Immune system defects
Prevention:
With correct brushing technique done twice a day and supplemented by keeping the spaces between the teeth clean, developing an infection around an implant is unlikely.
What will your dentist/dental hygienist do?
When your dentist/dental hygienist has diagnosed you with an infection around an implant, treatment will consist of full instruction on how to keep your implant clean and a thorough scaling and smoothing of the implant.
If you smoke, your dentist/dental hygienist will also encourage you to quit.
In serious cases, the implant may have to be removed altogether.