Dental implants provide a durable and aesthetic solution for replacing missing teeth, mimicking the function and appearance of natural teeth. While generally successful, they are susceptible to infection. Bacteria can accumulate around the implant site, potentially leading to complications.
How Dental Implants Become Infected
The primary condition responsible for dental implant infections is peri-implantitis, an inflammatory process affecting the soft tissues and supporting bone around a dental implant. This condition begins when bacteria accumulate on the implant’s surface, often below the gum line. As bacteria multiply, they irritate gum tissue, leading to inflammation and, if not treated, can damage surrounding tissue and deteriorate the supporting bone.
Poor oral hygiene is a common cause, allowing bacterial plaque to build up around the implant. Other risk factors include smoking, which impairs healing and immune response, and uncontrolled diabetes, which affects the body’s ability to fight infection. A history of gum disease (periodontal disease) also predisposes individuals to peri-implantitis. Dental implants are less resistant to biofilm buildup than natural teeth.
Identifying Implant Infection
Recognizing early signs of a dental implant infection is important for timely intervention. Common indicators include redness or swelling of the gums surrounding the implant, signaling inflammation. Tenderness or pain in the area, especially if it worsens or spreads, can also suggest an infection.
Bleeding when brushing or flossing around the implant is another symptom of peri-implantitis. The presence of pus or a yellowish discharge near the implant, often with a bad taste or odor, indicates a more advanced stage of infection. Gum recession might occur, causing the implant post to become visible, or the implant may feel loose, signifying bone deterioration.
Addressing and Preventing Infection
If an implant infection is suspected, seek prompt dental consultation for assessment and treatment. Initial treatments may include professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar, along with antimicrobial therapy, such as mouth rinses or topical gels, to control the infection. For severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove infected tissue and bone; sometimes the implant itself may need removal and replacement.
Preventing dental implant infections largely relies on excellent oral hygiene. This includes diligent brushing and flossing around the implant, along with regular use of antimicrobial mouthwash as recommended by a dental professional. Routine dental check-ups are important for monitoring implant health and detecting early issues. Avoiding smoking and effectively managing systemic health conditions like diabetes significantly reduce the risk of peri-implantitis.