Treating Infected Dental Implants: Can They Be Saved?
Dental implants are a remarkable solution for replacing missing teeth. They offer the promise of a permanent, natural-looking smile. But what happens when these marvelous implants become infected? Is it possible to save an infected dental implant?
Peri-implantitis, an inflammation similar to gum disease, can wreak havoc around dental implants. It affects the gum tissues and the supporting bone surrounding the implant, leading to symptoms such as bleeding gums, tenderness, swelling, and increased pocket depth around the implant. The concerning issue with peri-implantitis is its potential to deteriorate the bone encircling the infected dental implant, eventually causing the implant to become loose.
Diagnosing an Infected Dental Implant
Diagnosis of an infected dental implant is the crucial first step in saving it. This typically involves a dental x-ray to assess radiographic bone loss. The dentist may also gently probe around the implant to gauge the extent of infection and inflammation. Early detection is key to saving the implant.
Here’s the tricky part: similar to gum disease in natural teeth, peri-implantitis often doesn’t trigger pain. This means that patients may be unaware of an infected implant. The dentist will need to identify the source of inflammation, which can be attributed to various factors. These may include leftover cement, implant positioning, oral hygiene, bone quality, systemic health issues like diabetes, smoking, implant fractures, and overloading.
Research suggests that up to 30% of all implants may be affected by peri-implantitis, with anaerobic bacteria being a key contributor.
Treating Peri-implantitis
Once a dental implant infection is diagnosed, the treatment plan hinges on the extent of bone loss and the aesthetic significance of the affected implant. Properly cleaning the implant surface and regenerating lost bone are the primary goals. This may involve a combination of non-surgical and surgical therapies:
- Local Debridement: Removal of bacteria and calculus from the implant surface.
- Implant Surface Decontamination: Special treatments to disinfect the implant.
- Anti-infective Therapy: Antibiotics for mild infections.
- Removal of the Implant: In cases of severe bone loss, removing the implant might be necessary.
Treatment for peri-implantitis is highly technique-sensitive and varies based on the implant type, location, and bone loss severity.
Can an Infected Dental Implant Be Saved?
The potential for saving an infected dental implant largely depends on the stage of infection and bone loss. Early-stage infections are typically treated non-surgically with the removal of plaque and calculus, antibiotics, and prosthetic modifications. The success rate is higher the earlier the infection is addressed.
Moderate to advanced bone loss may necessitate surgical intervention. This involves cleaning the affected soft tissues around the dental implant, decontaminating the implant surface, and using bone regeneration techniques to restore lost bone. In severe cases where an implant has become loose, saving it might not be possible. The implant would need removal, followed by bone grafting. A new dental implant can be considered at a later stage, provided that all infection is eliminated, and new bone has regenerated.
The Importance of Regular Check-ups
If you have dental implants, regular check-ups and professional cleanings every four to six months are crucial. This enables your dentist to detect early signs of inflammation and infection. Timely action can be taken to preserve your implants and your confident smile.
Don’t ignore your dental implants’ health—visit your dentist regularly and maintain good oral hygiene to ensure they remain a lasting solution for your missing teeth.
Read more:
Which Teeth Can Dental Implants Replace?
Why No Dairy After a Dental Implant?
Dental Implants vs. Bridges: Which Tooth Replacement Option is Right for You?
All-on-6 vs. All-on-4 Dental Implants: Choosing the Right Solution for a Complete Smile
