Dental implants don’t get cavities, but the gums and bone around them can still become diseased. The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) explains that, like a natural tooth, bacteria can build up at the base of an implant below the gum line. Left alone, this inflammation can damage the tissue and the bone that holds the implant. Here is what to watch for and how to protect an implant.
Two stages of peri-implant disease
Peri-implant mucositis
Inflammation only in the soft gum tissue around the implant, with no signs of bone loss. The AAP says it is generally a precursor to peri-implantitis, and evidence suggests it may be successfully treated and is reversible if caught early.
Peri-implantitis
Inflammation of the soft tissue plus deterioration of the bone supporting the implant. The AAP says peri-implantitis usually requires surgical treatment.
Signs to watch for
The AAP says signs are similar to gum disease:
- red or tender gums around the implant
- bleeding when brushing
The FDA adds that if your implant feels loose or painful, you should tell your dental provider right away. See signs of gum disease and bleeding gums causes.
Risk factors
The AAP lists:
- a previous diagnosis of periodontal disease
- poor plaque control
- smoking
- diabetes
The FDA’s list of implant risks also includes difficulty cleaning the gums around the implant, untreated periodontal disease, infection-related implant failure that may be more likely with uncontrolled diabetes, and delayed healing that may be more likely in people who smoke. See diabetes and oral health.
Protecting your implant
- Clean it daily. The AAP says implants require regular brushing and flossing, just like natural teeth. The FDA says regularly cleaning the implant and surrounding teeth is very important for long-term success.
- Follow your provider’s hygiene instructions carefully after the procedure (FDA).
- Keep regular checkups. The AAP says it is essential to routinely monitor implants as part of a comprehensive periodontal evaluation.
- Report problems early, such as a loose or painful implant or a feeling that the tooth is twisting.
Cleaning tools are covered in flossing and interdental cleaning.
Other implant problems to know about
The FDA notes a sensation that the tooth is loose or twisting can come from a loosened abutment screw. Implant failure, usually defined as looseness or loss, can mean another surgery to fix or replace it. Also tell providers and imaging technicians you have implants before an MRI or X-ray, because implants can distort images.
The outlook
The AAP says implants function like natural teeth, but can become diseased just like natural teeth. With a proper oral health routine, an implant can last a lifetime. For background, see the dental implant process.
Frequently asked questions
Is peri-implantitis reversible?
The earlier stage, mucositis, may be reversible if caught early. Peri-implantitis with bone loss usually needs surgical treatment (AAP).
Who treats it?
Periodontists specialize in gums and implants. See dental specialists explained.
Sources
- American Academy of Periodontology: Peri-Implant Diseases
- FDA: Dental Implants: What You Should Know
By the Dentist Review Editorial Team.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Talk to a licensed dentist about your own situation. See our disclaimer.
Featured image: “Implant supported overdenture” by Ian Furst, via Wikimedia Commons, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Resized and compressed for the web.
Our guides are written and reviewed by the Dentist Review editorial team. We research each topic using public, authoritative sources such as the CDC, the National Institutes of Health (NIH/NIDCR), the American Dental Association (ADA) and CMS, and we update guides when guidance changes. Guides are for general information only and are not dental or medical advice; please read our disclaimer and learn more about us.