PERI-IMPLANT DISEASE

IS YOUR DENTAL IMPLANT CAUSING YOU PROBLEMS?

In some cases, the gums and bone tissues around dental implants can become infected. This infection can come from a wide variety of sources, including:

  • Improper implant procedures

  • Implants placed in bone that was low-density

  • Implant sites that have not been routinely cleaned

  • Undiagnosed and/or untreated periodontal disease

  • Conditions such as bruxism (grinding of the teeth)

  • Constant use of tobacco products

When combined with proper, consistent at-home and in-office periodontal hygiene, LAPIP® can effectively stop progressive bone loss, gum inflammation, and more.

WHAT IS THE TREATMENT FOR PERI-IMPLANTITIS?

After peri-implantitis has been diagnosed, Drs. Prabakaran and Ehrenman will take steps to try to reduce the inflammation in the gums surrounding the tooth implant. These steps usually include deep cleaning in the dental office and the prescription of medications that you will need to take at home. You may also be asked to perform specific oral hygiene routines in the morning and at night.


If these techniques do not completely eliminate peri-implantitis, laser assisted periimplantitis procedure (LAPIP®) may be advised. This technologically advanced solution uses lasers to deep clean and reshapes the area affected by peri-implantitis with the aim to protect and enhance your oral health. When combined with proper, consistent at-home and in-office periodontal hygiene, LAPIP® can effectively stop progressive bone loss, gum inflammation, and more.

COULD I HAVE PERI-IMPLANTITIS AND NOT KNOW IT?

Although there are some common signs of peri-implantitis, such as bleeding gums and dull achiness where the implant is located, many patients do not experience any symptoms until the condition has progressed to the point where the dental implant must be removed. Regular visits at PerioHealth include evaluations for peri-implantitis, so if you are following a good maintenance schedule, peri-implantitis will be caught early.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO TREAT PERI-IMPLANTITIS?

An infection around the dental implant is known as peri-implantitis, and should be addressed immediately to prevent loss of the dental implant. Dr. Prabakaran at PerioHealth regularly uses LAPIP® to perform laser gum surgery procedures on patients whose peri-implantitis has progressed. LAPIP® allows us to stop the development of further decay and infection of the soft and hard tissues in the mouth. LAPIP® is considered safe and uses laser technology to comfortably provide you with the outcome you deserve.

HOW CAN I KEEP MY IMPLANT CLEAN AFTER LAPIP®?

It is essential for you to keep your regular appointments with Dr. Prabakaran and your general dentist after LAPIP®. Additionally, you must be committed to maintaining a constant, stable oral hygiene routine at home. This will reduce the likelihood of development of peri-implantitis again.