Peri-implantitis occurs when an infection of bacterial origin generates and develops around a dental implant, causing severe damage to the supporting bone to which it is planted and causing the entire implant structure to become unstable (osseointegration) over time.
The bacterial species involved in the colonization of the fixture surface are diverse, we recall:
- Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans;
- B. gingivalis;
- B. intermedius et al.
This pathology should not be neglected at all, as it could cause the failure of the whole implant, which, not having the support of the bone around it, could fail and nullify the surgery and the sacrifice both economically and psychophysically of the patient.
Thus, peri-implantitis, just as with periodontitis, attacks the bone tissue that gives support to the tooth or, in this case, the implant, with the same consequences as the aforementioned disease: the fall of the entire implant.
Initially the infection affects the gingiva, then continues deeper causing bone resorption; at this point pockets infilled with bacterial plaque and tartar form. The diagnosis of peri-implantitis is made through the use of a periodontal probe.
Peri-implantitis can occur even after to osseointegration has occurred, years after surgery.
How to treat peri-implantitis?
The therapy to be followed to treat peri-implantitis depends on the stage of the disease; therefore, it is crucial to notice the problem as early as possible.
Pockets less than 3 mm deep
It is done without removal of the dental crown and without opening the gums. It is implemented in the following way:
- Manual pocket curing;
- Bacterial decontamination with LASER DIODO (3- 5 sessions-one every 7 days);
- Biostimulation with LASER DIODO: (at least 7-10 sessions-one every 2 days).
Pockets larger than 3 mm
It is necessary to remove the prosthetic crown of the implant. The procedure consists of opening a gingival flap around the screw so that exposed coils and the bottom of the bone pocket are visible. We then proceed to
- Surgical removal of peri-implant infected tissue;
- Curettage and smoothing of exposed implant coils;
- Bacterial decontamination with LASER DIODO (3- 5 sessions-one every 7 days).
At the end of the procedure, a cap screw is inserted in place of the prosthetic crown that will allow the peri-implant site to heal.
Then proceed to 3/4 sessions of LASER DIODO biostimulation (P:1.0W T:60s M:C F:3) (at least 7-10 sessions-one every 2 days)
Conclusions on peri-implantitis
If you experience tooth pain after having implant surgery (even after a few years) or your gums are swollen and bleed easily or you still feel like one or more teeth are moving, you may be suffering from peri-implantitis. For solution of this particular condition you can turn with confidence to AIRAM Medical Center, your trusted dentist in Castel Maggiore.