Periimplantitis, bone lesions, gums problems and bite problems are things we sometimes have to deal with. They are very rare indeed. Main risk factors are bad oral hygiene, smoking and existing periodontal diseases.
Future bone loss or gum problems.
Dental implants act like teeth to stabilize the bone and provide long-term bone health. In some situations there can be future bone loss and generally this is linked to patients not looking after the implants. Dental implants just like teeth need daily cleaning and brushing. In the case of implant bridgework, the use of a Waterpik or bridge Superfloss helps clean in between the bridge teeth. Although dental implants cannot suffer tooth decay, the gums can become inflamed if not cared for properly. I will demonstrate how to look after your implants and may refer you to our hygienist to help with this.
Periimplantitis.
This is a condition with similarities to the gum disease that occurs around natural teeth and has similar risk factors. There has been knowledge of this disease for over 8 years and currently lots of research is happening to identify ways to eliminate it. It is now well recognised that patients with existing gum disease on their natural teeth are at a very high risk of developing peri-implantitis but it may not show for some time. For this reason, part of the decision whether implants are offered will be based upon a screening for gum disease. I choose not to place implants in anyone with poor oral hygiene or with pre-existing gum disease that doesn’t respond to treatment.
If I notice gum disease in a patient I will refer them to have this treated, typically by a dental hygienist. If the gum disease is treated and the patient is willing to have long-term prevention then I may offer implant care. The major risk factors for peri-implatitis are pre-existing gum disease, smoking and poor oral hygiene all of which can be addressed by the patient if they are sufficiently motivated. As peri-implantitis is a patient factor and can occur due to poor implant care I do not offer any guarantee against it occurring but would be able to provide treatment should it occur.
Bite problems.
There should not be any problems with the bite being affected when dental implants are placed as I carefully check that the bite is correct during all stages. If a new implant tooth, bridge or denture feels awkward in the bite it should be checked and if necessary adjusted by me. You would know if this were the case early on and after simple adjustments there should never be problems with the bite.
