Dental implants and oral hygiene
/Thanks to the advancement of technology and research in the field of implant dentistry, the application of osseointegrated dental implants is greater than ever.
Dental implants traverse the oral cavity through the surrounding mucosa into the sterile jawbone. Dental implants need a mucosal sealing mechanism to protect the microbiologically sterile root area. If the seal is breached, periodontal pathogens gain access to the root area.
There are two types of peri-implant inflammation: Peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis. Peri-implant mucositis is the reversible inflammation of the mucous membrane. The progression of peri-implant mucositis to inflammation around the implant surface causing bone loss is known as peri-implantitis. Without treatment, peri-implantitis can result in the loss of an implant.
Risk factors for peri-implantitis:
- Oral hygiene: The accumulation of plaque is a risk factor for periodontal diseases, peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis.
- Smoking and alcohol consumption
- Existing or previous periodontitis
- Diabetes
- Some medications and radiation therapy
- Systemic conditions like cardiovascular disease
Symptoms of peri-implantitis
The first warning sign is peri-implant mucositis, which is usually diagnosed during regular oral hygiene checkups. Other signs include: bleeding, redness, pain, pus.
Oral hygiene tips for your dental implants:
- Brush teeth twice daily- an electric toothbrush is highly recommended
- Floss every day- there are special floss for dental implants that help access hard to reach areas.
- Use a waterpik
- Avoid smoking
- Eat healthy
- Regular dental checkups- if the disease is treated early, stopping the progression of the disease is possible
If you have any questions about these procedures or you know you might need a consult about dental implants please contact us at Scott Family Dental at 807-345-6331, we would love to meet you in person.
