Did You Know That Dental Implants Can Get Gum And Bone Disease?
Many patients considering a dental implant in Richmond may be thinking that once the procedure has been carried out then that’s the end of all their dental worries. However, we hate to be the bearer of bad news but a bit like your natural teeth, dental implants can actually suffer from gum and bone disease. Basically this is the same sort of disease which occurs around your teeth. We’ll take a further look below at these conditions and, more importantly, what you can do to prevent it from happening.
About peri-implantitis
Peri-implantitis is the number one enemy of dental implants and is one of the most common causes of implant failure. It can occur when bacteria is present during surgery or at any time following placement when a patients fails to maintain a good level of oral hygiene. In some cases it can also be caused by the dental cement, which dentists use to secure the crown to the abutment, leaking from under the crowns as cementation takes place and getting trapped in the gums.
Peri-implantitis is an infectious disease which causes inflammation of the surrounding gum and bone of a dental implant and can eventually lead to the loss of the bone supporting the implant. Most patients are unaware that any bone loss has occurred around the implant since the disease progresses without any pain. Once it has got a hold, then you’re likely to develop symptoms.
There are several factors which can put dental implants at risk of developing peri-implantitis, namely:
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Osteoporosis
- Weak immune system
If gum disease was the main cause for your tooth loss and why you needed a dental implant in Richmond then you’re more at risk of developing bone loss around your implants. Maintaining a good level of oral hygiene is critical and this involves brushing your teeth and around your implants for at least twice a day, flossing once a day, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash – forever! It’s also important to maintain six monthly check-ups with your dentist. Another risk factor to dental implants is tooth grinding.
Signs of Peri-implantitis
- Bleeding at the gum line
- Deepening of gum pockets
- Gums are red and swollen
- Pus is coming out from the implants and gums
- Tatar/plaque build up
Typically the symptoms aren’t always painful until they are in an advanced form. Patients often complain of the area feeling tender when they touch or brush it. Others may notice a bad taste in their mouth if pus has developed. In severe cases the glands in the neck may be swollen. You might even feel your dental implants loosening.
If you notice any of these signs that it’s critical that you visit your dentist right away. Treating peri-implantitis is very difficult and most times it results in your implants either falling out or needing to be removed.
To find out more about all that dental implants in Richmond entail then why not book a free consultation with the team at Sheen Dental. You can book online at www.sheendentalimplants.co.uk or call us direct on 020 8876 5277. We’re here to offer help and guidance in all aspects of dental care.