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Conditions

Dentistry · Oral health

Peri-implant diseases

Distinguish reversible soft-tissue inflammation from peri-implantitis with progressive bone loss.

Editorial publication · Medical review pending.

Understand

Peri-implant diseases include mucositis limited to soft tissue and peri-implantitis, which combines inflammation with bone loss around an implant.

Possible symptoms

Bleeding, redness, swelling, pus, a bad taste or prosthetic mobility may occur; bone loss can remain painless.

Causes and associated factors

Biofilm, previous periodontitis, tobacco, poorly controlled diabetes, difficult cleaning, implant position or inadequate maintenance modify risk.

Diagnosis

Assessment compares probing, bleeding, suppuration and bone levels with earlier records and distinguishes tissue, prosthetic and implant problems.

Tests

Gentle probing and standardised X-rays are essential; implant mobility suggests advanced loss of integration.

Course of the condition

Mucositis can be reversible; peri-implantitis may progress irregularly and compromise an implant without follow-up.

Care options

Professional cleaning, tailored hygiene and risk control precede non-surgical or surgical treatment; implant removal is sometimes necessary.

When to consult

Seek care for bleeding around an implant, pus, swelling, pain, bad breath or a moving restoration.

Urgent help

Rapid swelling, fever, heavy discharge, increasing pain, difficulty swallowing or an implant or prosthesis at risk of inhalation needs prompt help.

Questions for your doctor

  • What exact diagnosis explains my symptoms?
  • Are the tooth, gum, bone or jaw joint affected?
  • Which options can preserve natural tissues?
  • Which benefits, limits, risks and costs should I compare?
  • What follow-up and warning signs should I plan for?

Continue reading

A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.

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