An infection around a dental implant is treatable, but early detection matters. Our team combines direct visualization, biologic materials, and antimicrobial therapy to protect the implant and the bone around it.
Dental implants have about a 95 percent success rate and are widely considered a reliable replacement for missing teeth. Like natural teeth, they need daily care and routine visits to remain healthy for the long term.
Peri-implantitis is an infection that affects the soft and hard tissue around a dental implant. Bacteria accumulate at the base of the implant, irritate the surrounding tissue, and, left unchecked, can cause swelling, inflammation, and even bone loss around the implant.
The good news: peri-implantitis is manageable when caught early and treated appropriately. The earlier the intervention, the more predictable the outcome.
Understanding the risk factors is part of preventing peri-implantitis in the first place.
Patients who have had periodontal disease are at higher risk of developing peri-implantitis and should be monitored accordingly.
Insufficient daily brushing and flossing allows plaque to build up around the implant, which is the primary trigger for infection.
Cement left around the implant after a crown is placed can trap bacteria and drive inflammation. This is a well-known and preventable cause.
Implants placed to accommodate an ideal crown shape can sometimes be difficult to clean at home, which we plan for when evaluating each case.
Smoking impairs the body's natural response to bacteria and inflammation and is a strong driver of aggressive bone loss around implants.
Uncontrolled diabetes similarly impairs healing and immune response, which increases the risk of peri-implantitis progressing quickly.
Bleeding when brushing, swelling around the implant, persistent bad breath, a loose or wobbly feeling, or unusual discomfort, any of these can indicate peri-implantitis. In our office we also watch for probing bleeding, pocket formation, color changes, and X-ray evidence of bone loss.
Treatment depends on how far the infection has progressed and how much bone has been affected.
We evaluate the soft tissue, probe the site, and use X-rays to identify the extent of bone loss and the specific contributors driving the infection.
A microscopic camera (PerioView) allows us to see the implant surface directly, critical when treating an area that is otherwise difficult to fully clean.
When possible, we begin with non-surgical therapy to control the infection and detoxify the implant surface using targeted instruments and antiseptic protocols.
Antibiotics and regenerative biologic materials are used as appropriate to reduce bacterial load and support the healing response.
For advanced cases, a more involved surgical approach may be used to regenerate bone that has been lost around the implant and restore a stable environment.
Peri-implant mucositis is the early, reversible form of peri-implant disease. Catching it before it progresses to peri-implantitis is the goal, and it starts with routine preventive visits and consistent home care.
Brush twice daily around the implant with the technique we coach in our office. Routine cleanings with your dentist and our team allow us to monitor the tissue and catch changes early, when treatment is simpler and more predictable.
We are honored you have chosen us for your periodontal care. At Coastal Periodontics, we believe every patient is unique, not just in dental needs but in values, past experiences, and treatment goals. Our team listens first, then designs a collaborative treatment plan around what matters to you. We pride ourselves on providing a calm, welcoming environment where every detail is handled with compassion. Our approach is grounded in a simple ideology: it is not about a procedure, it is about a long-term relationship. We stay active in continued education and in the community we serve.
Next Step
If you are noticing any of the warning signs, schedule an evaluation. Early treatment protects the implant.