When teeth
need to be replaced, dental implants are a wonderful option for many people. Just
like natural teeth, however, there is no guarantee a person’s dental implant(s)
will last a lifetime. Although they may
look bionic in pictures, a dental implant still needs careful monitoring and regular
care. True, they cannot decay like natural teeth – but they are subject to the
same complications of gum disease and bone loss.
There are two
categories of peri-implant complications: Peri-Implant Mucositis and
Peri-Implantitis.
Peri-Implant
Mucositis: This condition is similar to
gingivitis around a natural tooth and does not include loss of attachment (bone
or gum tissue) and is hopefully reversible at this stage. Peri-Implant Mucositis is a reversible
inflammatory reaction in the soft tissues surrounding a functioning
implant. Treating this condition as soon
as possible will prevent peri-implantitis!
Peri-Implantitis: This is a condition similar to periodontitis
with loss of supporting structures (gum and/or bone) around a natural tooth. Peri-Implantitis is a destructive inflammatory
reaction affecting the soft (gingiva) and hard (bone).
Checking
for implant health
Upon routine examination, your periodontist, dentist or dental
hygienist will evaluate your implant for plaque or tartar build up around the
implant, as well as gum tissue color, texture and type of gum tissue supporting
the implant (attached to bone or unattached).
Next, probing measurements will be taken around the implant. Your dentist or hygienist may use light pressure
and a plastic probe. The tissues
surrounding dental implants have a weaker attachment, bleed easier, and may be
a bit more sensitive to probing. Heavy
bleeding, pus, and increased probing measurements will require attention.
They will check both the implant body and its restorative parts,
such as the implant abutment or crown for ay loose parts. If the restorative
parts are loose they can likely be repaired by your restorative dentist or
implant specialist. If the implant body
itself is mobile, it’s an immediate failure and will require removal. Your
dentist will also check your bite to make sure that the implant is not being
hit with excessive pressure, as this could cause the bone surrounding the
implant to weaken and the implant body to become loose.
Radiographs, or x-rays, should be taken at different times during
the surgical and restorative phase of implant placement. Routine, annual “checkup”
x-rays should be taken of the implant to compare to the original ones taken to
carefully evaluate bone levels.
The dental hygiene visit includes removal of all soft and hard
deposits on the implants, just as on the teeth themselves. Often, the hygienist
will use instruments designated for implant care.
Your dental professional will then discuss the best daily oral
hygiene care plan for your mouth and your dental implant(s). Listen closely to
their oral hygiene instructions and customized daily oral hygiene strategies. Just
like with natural teeth, biofilm or plaque must be removed skillfully every day
because it can cause both infection and inflammation around a dental
implant.
Studies
show rinsing with Listerine (diluted with water if strong alcohol content is an
issue) has its benefits because of its great antibacterial properties. Other great oral hygiene aids for implant
care include a power toothbrush (love Sonicare by Phillips), Proxysoft Bridge
and Implant Floss (www.proxysoft.com), double-bend end tufted brush
for lingual of lower hybrids (Tepe brand). A Waterpik may also be used, but
with careful instruction from your dental professional.
Your dentist may determine a maintenance schedule that is
appropriate for you. It is very common
for patients with implants to be seen every 3 to 4 months for those with less-than-ideal
oral health, advancing age, or systemic conditions.
When complications arise
Peri-Implant
mucositis can be treated with non-surgical therapy and daily disease control (effective oral hygiene). This condition should be carefully reevaluated
and reassessed. If the issue cannot be
resolved in six months, it is advisable to see an implant specialist.
If Peri-Implantitis is
diagnosed, non-surgical therapy is typically ineffective. At this stage, it is adviseable to see an
implant specialist to see if there is a restorative issue that can be
addressed, or if surgical (traditional or laser LAPIP therapy) or implant
removal is needed.
Regular dental hygiene care and examination is just as important
to dental implant health as it is to natural teeth .If you have any questions regarding the health of your dental implant, contact us today at 727-586-2681 or visit our website at www.brittenperio.com.
Britten Periodontics & Implant Dentistry is a periodontal
practice offering patients personalized dental care in implant dentistry in Clearwater,
Florida. Dr. Todd Britten received his Bachelor of Science & Doctorate of
Dental Surgery from University of Florida, a Master’s Degree and Certificate in
Periodontology and Implant Dentistry; and completed extensive training at the
Institute of Advanced Laser Dentistry. He is one of the only board-certified
periodontists in Pinellas County. He is a member of the American Academy of
Periodontology, American Dental Association, Florida Association of
Periodontists, Upper Pinellas County Dental Association, Hillsborough County
Dental Association, Hillsborough County Dental Research Association and Florida
West Coast Dental Association.
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