Peri-Implantitis and Implant Disease Symptoms and Prevention

Safeguarding Your Smile

Dental implants are a remarkable solution for restoring missing teeth, but like natural teeth, they require proper care and maintenance. At Larson Dental in Prescott Valley, AZ, Dr. Seth Larson and his team understand the importance of preserving the health and longevity of your dental implants. That’s why we prioritize educating patients about conditions like peri-implantitis and implant disease, which can silently compromise the success of your dental implants if left unaddressed. 

With their expertise and commitment to personalized care, the team at Larson Dental is dedicated to helping you enjoy the benefits of your dental implants for many years to come. If you have any concerns or need to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to call (928) 237-9064.

What is Peri-Implantitis?

Peri-implantitis is a progressive inflammatory condition that affects the soft and hard tissues surrounding a dental implant. It is caused by bacterial infection and can lead to bone loss around the implant, potentially compromising its stability and longevity. Peri-implantitis is considered a more advanced stage of implant disease and is often preceded by a milder form called peri-implant mucositis.

Symptoms

Early detection of peri-implantitis is crucial for successful treatment. Some common symptoms to watch out for include:

• Bleeding or inflammation around the implant site
• Persistent bad breath or taste
• Swelling or redness around the implant
• Recession of gum tissue around the implant
• Loosening or mobility of the implant

If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with Dr. Larson at Larson Dental in Prescott Valley, AZ, for a comprehensive evaluation.

How can I prevent it?

Prevention is the key to maintaining healthy dental implants and avoiding peri-implantitis. Dr. Larson and his team recommend the following preventive measures:

• Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash as recommended.
• Attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings at our Prescott Valley, AZ, dental practice, where Dr. Larson can monitor the condition of your implants and provide professional cleaning.
• Quit smoking or using tobacco products, as they increase the risk of peri-implantitis and other oral health problems.
• Follow a balanced diet and maintain good overall health, as systemic conditions like diabetes can affect implant health.

What is Implant Disease?

Implant disease, also known as peri-implant mucositis, is an inflammatory condition that affects the soft tissues surrounding a dental implant. It is caused by bacterial plaque accumulation and is often considered a precursor to peri-implantitis if left untreated. While not as severe as peri-implantitis, implant disease can still lead to discomfort, swelling, and potential bone loss over time.

Symptoms

The symptoms of implant disease may be more subtle than those of peri-implantitis, but they should not be ignored. Some common signs include:

• Redness or inflammation around the implant site
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing around the implant
• Slight swelling or tenderness around the implant

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with Dr. Larson at Larson Dental in Prescott Valley, AZ, for prompt evaluation and treatment.

How can I prevent it?

Preventing implant disease is essential for maintaining the long-term success of your dental implants. Dr. Larson and his team recommend the following preventive measures:

• Practice excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash as recommended.
• Attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings at Larson Dental, where Dr. Larson can monitor the condition of your implants and provide professional cleaning.
• Avoid habits like smoking or using tobacco products, as they increase the risk of implant disease and other oral health problems.
• Maintain a balanced diet and good overall health, as systemic conditions like diabetes can increase the risk of implant disease.