What You Need to Know about Peri-Implantitis
Posted on 8/3/2026 by Scholes Periodontics & Implants |
 Losing a tooth can be tough, and dental implants offer a fantastic way to get your smile and chewing ability back. They look and feel like natural teeth, and with proper care, can last a lifetime. But like natural teeth, implants aren't immune to problems. One issue you need to know about is peri- implantitis. Let's break down what it is, how it develops, and what you can do to keep your implants healthy for years to come.
What is Peri-Implantitis?
Think of peri-implantitis as gum disease around a dental implant. "Peri" means around, and "implantitis" refers to inflammation around the implant. It’s an inflammatory condition that affects the soft and hard tissues surrounding a dental implant. It starts with inflammation of the gums (peri-mucositis) and can progress to bone loss around the implant if left untreated. This bone loss is what distinguishes peri-implantitis from simple gum inflammation. If enough bone is lost, the implant can become loose and, in severe cases, may need to be removed.
What Causes It?
Peri-implantitis is usually caused by bacteria, just like gum disease around natural teeth. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, constantly forms on our teeth and implants. If plaque isn't removed regularly through brushing and flossing, it can irritate the gums and cause inflammation. Over time, this inflammation can lead to bone loss.
Several factors can increase your risk of developing peri-implantitis. Poor oral hygiene is a major one. Smoking significantly increases the risk, as it impairs the body's ability to heal and fight infection. Certain medical conditions, like diabetes, can also make you more susceptible. How well the implant was placed initially and the overall design of the implant can also play a role. Finally, a history of gum disease increases the likelihood of developing peri-implantitis around implants.
How Do I Know if I Have It?
The early stages of peri-implantitis may not have obvious symptoms. That's why regular check-ups with your dental professional are so important. They can spot subtle signs, like redness, swelling, or bleeding around the implant. As the condition progresses, you might notice more noticeable symptoms, such as pus around the implant, pain or discomfort, and even a change in the way the implant feels. In advanced cases, the implant may become loose.
How Can It Be Prevented?
Prevention is key when it comes to peri-implantitis. Excellent oral hygiene is the first line of defense. Brush your teeth and around your implants at least twice a day, and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles. Your dental professional can recommend special brushes or floss designed for cleaning around implants.
Regular check-ups and cleanings are also crucial. Your dental professional can monitor the health of your implants and catch any problems early on. They can also provide professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar that you can't remove at home. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your oral health and the long-term success of your implants. Managing underlying medical conditions, like diabetes, is also important.
What Happens if I Develop Peri-Implantitis?
Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing peri-implantitis. The goal of treatment is to eliminate the infection and prevent further bone loss. This may involve professional cleaning of the implant surface, using antimicrobial rinses, and, in some cases, surgical procedures to clean the infected area and regenerate lost bone. The specific treatment approach will depend on the severity of the condition. The important thing is to seek treatment as soon as possible to improve the chances of saving the implant.
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