Sometimes, after an implant has been in place for years, bacteria can accumulate around it, causing infection and inflammation—a condition called peri-implantitis. If left untreated, it leads to bone loss around the implant, putting the implant at risk. Early detection and treatment are crucial to saving your implant and preserving your jawbone.
Treatment typically starts with non-surgical approaches: we thoroughly clean around the implant, remove buildup, and prescribe antimicrobial rinses or local antibiotics. If the infection is deeper or doesn't respond to cleaning alone, we may recommend surgical treatment where we gently access the area around the implant, remove infected tissue, decontaminate the implant surface, and encourage bone to heal.
The key to success is catching peri-implantitis early—which is why regular implant check-ups are so important. If you notice swelling, redness, bleeding, or discomfort around an implant, contact us right away. With prompt treatment, most implants can be saved and restored to health.