Dental Implant Infection - Symptoms & Treatments
Dental implants are a safe and reliable option for replacing damaged or missing teeth, but infections such as peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis can sometimes occur at the implant site after placement. Early detection and treatment, and good oral hygiene can help to reduce the damage and ensure the ultimate success of the implant.
It’s essential to be examined by a dental professional at the first sign of infection, as treatments are most effective when applied sooner rather than later. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments can reduce your chances of an infection compromising the integrity of your dental implant(s).
Types of Dental Implant Infections
All mouths are filled with a plethora of germs. With the right conditions, these germs can capitalize on the circumstances and wreak havoc on your overall oral health, gum tissue, and even bone tissue.
Infections are no fun. Learning about the two basic dental implant infections—along with regular care and good oral hygiene—will help to protect your smile and keep your implants happy.
Peri-Implant Mucositis
Peri-implant mucositis is an inflammatory condition of the soft tissues surrounding the implant. This type of infection does not involve bone loss and is similar to gingivitis which can surround natural teeth.
The main catalyst for developing peri-implant mucositis is the buildup of plaque between the dental implant and the gums. Visiting a dental professional and maintaining good oral health practices at home will help to keep plaque from gaining a foothold.
Peri-Implantitis
Peri-implantitis is a more serious infection that can happen to dental implants. This implant infection not only affects the gums surrounding the implant but also the bone that supports the dental implant. Periodontitis is a comparable problem that surrounds natural teeth. Patients who have lost a tooth previously from advanced periodontitis may be at a higher risk for developing peri-implantitis.
Implant Infection Causes
Dental implants can become infected for several reasons. Many times, the infected dental implant is the result of two or more issues combined. Early detection is key to avoiding further injury. According to research, about 22% of American adults with dental insurance did not visit their dentist in the past year. Visiting the dentist for regular care can help prevent future implant failure, so be sure to schedule six-monthly visits even if you think your teeth are okay.
Taking care of your overall health is an important factor when cutting down on opportunities for infections. Following the implant aftercare instructions your dentist provides is also key to avoiding future implant infections and the need for further surgical intervention.
Peri-Implant Mucositis Causes
The following causes are known to raise the chances of an infected dental implant:
Poor oral hygiene: Regular brushing and flossing will help reduce the risk of infections.
Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of developing a dental implant infection.
Pre-existing gum disease: People who have gingivitis or periodontitis are more likely to develop infections in and around their dental implants.
Excessive mechanical load: Excessive force by the jaw or bite can cause micro-movements or irritations that can lead to inflammation and infection.
Inadequate post-surgical home care: It's essential to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your dentist after each surgical procedure.
Allergic reactions: Although very rare, some people can have an allergic reaction to the materials used in the dental implant.
Peri-Implantitis Causes
When left untreated, peri-implant mucositis can lead to peri-implantitis. You can decrease your chances of developing peri-implantitis by not smoking and by seeing a dentist immediately at the first sign of implant difficulty.
Infected dental implants become diseased with peri-implantitis or fail for many reasons including the above causes of peri-implant mucositis. When dental implants become infected to the bone, bone loss can occur.
Infected Implant Symptoms
It is essential to know and be able to recognize the early signs of an infected dental implant. This allows dental professionals more time to assess and give treatment options as well as keep the infection from spreading and causing bone loss.
After dental implant surgery, look out for dental implant failure symptoms to catch any problems as soon as possible.
Peri-Implant Mucositis Symptoms
Symptoms of this type of dental implant infection are typically very mild but can become severe quickly. These are some common symptoms to watch out for:
Red, tender, swollen gums around the implant
Bleeding while brushing teeth
Bad breath
Mild discomfort at the implant site
These symptoms are not always easy to notice and may not even hurt. Visit a dentist who can use a special probe to diagnose mucositis with a simple and painless test. Make an appointment with a dentist immediately if redness and pain are present around the implant site. Ask your dentist for a dental implant care guide to make sure you are caring for your implants correctly.
Peri-Implantitis Symptoms
These infection symptoms tend to be more pronounced and severe. Speak with a knowledgeable dentist immediately if any of these symptoms are present:
Pronounced redness or swelling of the gums
Persistent bleeding or gum discharge
Deep pockets surrounding the implant
Receding gums that expose the implant
Pain and discomfort when chewing
Loose implant
Fever
Infected Implant Treatment
An infection can be easily treated by dental personnel in most cases. However, quick detection is essential to avoid bone loss or further unplanned surgery.
Dental implants are available for almost anyone with missing or damaged teeth. Because of the popularity of implants, many solutions have been developed for treatment should any problems arise.
Treatment for Peri-Implant Mucositis
Take the following steps if you notice symptoms of peri-implant mucositis:
Go for a professional cleaning to remove plaque and other debris from the implant area.
Improve oral hygiene with correct brushing, flossing, and antimicrobial rinses.
Make lifestyle changes such as stopping smoking and managing diabetes to reduce inflammatory responses in the body.
Treatment for Peri-Implantitis
Peri-implantitis is a more serious infection. Depending on how far it has progressed, there are non-surgical and surgical treatment options available.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Scaling and root planing: This treatment involves a deep cleaning of the implant surface and surrounding areas.
Antibiotic treatment: Topical or systemic antibiotics may be recommended.
Surgical Treatment
Surgical debridement: This is a removal of the infected tissue and deep cleaning of the area.
Bone grafting: If bone loss has occurred, bone grafting may be needed.
Implant removal: Although rare, implants may need to be removed and replaced.
The best therapy for implant infections is to prevent them with good oral health, regular dental visits, reducing inflammatory habits, using mouthwashes, and quickly reporting any signs of infection.
Prevent and Correct Dental Implant Infections
An implant infection can quickly lead to complications, further pain, and even bone loss when left untreated. At Salin Dentistry, in Bakersfield CA, we make it our mission to ensure the best treatment and take prompt action if needed. Your well-being is important to us. Please reach out with any questions or concerns or to receive regular care and preventative treatment.
Dental implant infections can lead to a lower success rate of dental implants. Knowing the types, causes, symptoms, and treatments of peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis will help you decrease the chances of a major infection. Implementing healthy habits and seeking help when needed will ensure a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.