Peri-Implantitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Care

Q: Peri-Implantitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Care

Hello： If there is a persistent purulent condition, it is recommended to consult an infectious disease specialist for a prescription of commonly used antibiotics for upper respiratory infections. <br>During the isolation period, invasive dental treatments are not advised. <br>Sin

Peri-implantitis

Hello Dr.
Lin, last week I consulted you about the issue of peri-implantitis (the situation is described below).
On December 16, an X-ray taken in Hong Kong revealed severe peri-implantitis.
On December 21, a CT scan showed that only 2mm of the implant remains, and I am currently in isolation until January 17.
I have been using dental floss, brushing my teeth, and rinsing with mouthwash, but recently when I press on the gums around the implant, pus comes out.
Should I take medication for this condition, or can I wait until the isolation period ends on January 17 to address it? Thank you!

Kiki, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/02

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: If there is a persistent purulent condition, it is recommended to consult an infectious disease specialist for a prescription of commonly used antibiotics for upper respiratory infections.
During the isolation period, invasive dental treatments are not advised.
Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2022/01/02

More Info

Peri-implantitis is a significant inflammatory condition affecting the tissues surrounding dental implants. It is characterized by the loss of supporting bone and can lead to implant failure if not addressed promptly. Understanding its symptoms, treatment options, and care is crucial for anyone experiencing this condition.

Symptoms of Peri-Implantitis
The symptoms of peri-implantitis can vary in severity but typically include:
1. Gingival Inflammation: Swelling, redness, and tenderness of the gums around the implant.

2. Pain or Discomfort: Patients may experience pain when pressure is applied to the implant area.

3. Pus Discharge: As you mentioned, the presence of pus when pressing on the gums is a common sign of infection.

4. Mobility of the Implant: In advanced cases, the implant may feel loose.

5. Bone Loss: Radiographic evidence may show bone loss around the implant.

Treatment Options
The treatment for peri-implantitis often depends on the severity of the condition. Here are some common approaches:
1. Non-Surgical Therapy: This includes mechanical debridement of the implant surface and surrounding tissues. Professional cleaning by a dental hygienist or periodontist is essential. Antimicrobial mouth rinses may also be recommended to help reduce bacterial load.

2. Antibiotic Therapy: If there is significant infection, systemic antibiotics may be prescribed. This is particularly important if there is pus present, as it indicates a bacterial infection that may need more than just local treatment.

3. Surgical Intervention: In cases where non-surgical treatment is ineffective, surgical options may be necessary. This could involve flap surgery to access the implant and surrounding bone for thorough cleaning and possibly bone grafting if significant bone loss has occurred.

4. Maintenance: After treatment, regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor the health of the implant and surrounding tissues. Good oral hygiene practices, including the use of dental floss and antimicrobial mouth rinses, should be maintained.

Care and Prevention
Preventive care is vital in managing peri-implantitis. Here are some recommendations:
- Oral Hygiene: Continue using dental floss and brushing your teeth regularly. Consider using a soft-bristle toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid damaging the implant and surrounding tissues.

- Regular Dental Visits: Schedule regular check-ups with your dentist or periodontist to monitor the health of your implants.

- Avoid Smoking: Smoking can significantly increase the risk of peri-implantitis and impair healing.

- Diet and Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support oral health.

Conclusion
Given your current situation, where you are experiencing pus discharge and have been diagnosed with severe peri-implantitis, it is crucial to seek immediate dental care. While you may be in isolation until January 17, it is advisable to contact your dentist or periodontist for guidance on whether you should start antibiotic therapy or if any other immediate interventions are necessary. Delaying treatment could lead to further complications, including increased bone loss or implant failure.

In summary, peri-implantitis is a serious condition that requires prompt attention. By understanding the symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures, you can take proactive steps to manage your oral health effectively.

Similar Q&A

Dealing with Gum Abscess After Dental Implant: Causes and Solutions

Four months after receiving an upper jaw dental implant, I had a prosthesis placed at the clinic. The week after the prosthesis was installed, I noticed a small white pus-filled bump above the implant site on my gums. It is not painful. After returning to the clinic, the doctor l...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: Peri-implantitis is indeed a challenging issue that is difficult to eradicate. It is recommended to first use oral antibiotics in conjunction with topical antibiotics to reduce bacterial load and decrease the level of inflammation. Additionally, it is advisable to have a d...

Dealing with Persistent Dental Implant Inflammation: What Are Your Options?

Hello, doctor. I have had my dental implant for 11 years, but I have been experiencing peri-implantitis around the implant, which has been inflamed. I have to undergo flap surgery almost every year and visit the hospital for cleaning and debridement every few months. It has becom...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: If you really want to have it removed, it is advisable to firmly inform the original clinic and the original dentist, especially since it primarily involves cost issues (the cost of the original dental implant and the cost of removing the implant, etc.), which must be clea...

Understanding Root Canal Treatment: What to Do If Symptoms Persist

Hello Doctor, I have a question. When I was a child, I broke two of my front teeth and had dental implants that have been in place for 20 years. Recently, I noticed a small bump above the left implant, which is painful when pressed. I went to the dentist, who said there was a p...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
As a child, I broke two of my front teeth, and later on, the dental implant on the left side developed a small bump that is painful when pressed. This could be due to periodontal inflammation or infection around the implant, or it may indicate a recurrent infection in the root ca...

Understanding Periodontal Disease Treatment and Dental Implants

Today, I went to the dentist, and the doctor said I have severe periodontal disease and need dental implants. However, the treatment plan is to place the implants first and then treat the periodontal disease, which is the opposite of what I expected. Is this approach feasible? Ad...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
1. Generally, periodontal disease should be treated first, and once the periodontal condition is stable, then consider dental implants in the edentulous area. 2. Swelling in the lower gums may be due to chronic inflammation, which is usually not painful. However, if it does not r...