Introduction
Dental implants have become one of the most reliable solutions for restoring missing teeth. However, even the most advanced implant can fail if not properly maintained. One of the most serious—and often silent—threats is peri-implantitis, a condition involving inflammation and infection around a dental implant.
Left untreated, peri-implantitis can lead to bone loss, implant failure, and further complications.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore:
- The common causes of peri-implantitis
- How to recognize the early signs
- Prevention strategies and treatment options
- And why Dr. Abdulrahman Ozturk’s Clinic in Istanbul is considered Turkey’s leading center for treating implant-related conditions with precision and care.
What Is Peri-Implantitis?
Peri-implantitis is a bacterial infection and inflammation that affects the gum and bone tissues surrounding a dental implant.
It typically begins with:
- Redness or bleeding in the gum area
And progresses to:
- Bone loss around the implant
- Mobility of the implant
- Total implant failure in severe cases
Causes of Peri-Implantitis
1. Poor Oral Hygiene
Inadequate cleaning around the implant allows plaque and bacteria to accumulate.
2. Smoking
Reduces blood flow and weakens the immune response, making infections more likely.
3. History of Gum Disease
Patients with previous periodontal disease are at higher risk.
4. Improper Implant Placement
Incorrect angulation or depth can lead to plaque traps and hygiene challenges.
5. Excessive Biting Force
Caused by misaligned bite or bruxism (teeth grinding), putting stress on the implant.
Signs and Symptoms of Peri-Implantitis
- Gum bleeding or swelling near the implant
- Persistent bad breath
- Pus or discharge
- Pain or discomfort around the implant
- Loosening of the implant
- Visible bone loss on X-rays
How to Prevent Peri-Implantitis
1. Daily Oral Care
- Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste
- Floss or use an interdental brush specifically designed for implants
- Consider water flossers for deep cleaning
2. Regular Dental Checkups
- Visit your dentist every 4 to 6 months for professional cleaning and evaluation
3. Quit Smoking
- Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors
4. Antibacterial Mouthwash
- Use daily to reduce harmful bacteria
5. Night Guards for Bruxism
- Prevent stress on implants due to nighttime grinding
Early Treatment of Peri-Implantitis
At Dr. Abdulrahman Ozturk’s Clinic, early-stage peri-implantitis is managed using the latest techniques:
1. Deep Cleaning Around the Implant
- Manual scaling and ultrasonic tools to remove bacterial deposits
- Use of airflow or laser systems for non-invasive cleaning
2. Antimicrobial Therapy
- Local antibiotics or antiseptics (like chlorhexidine) applied directly
3. Adjustment of the Prosthetic Crown
- Ensuring there’s no undue pressure or hygiene difficulty due to crown design
Advanced Treatments for Severe Cases
In moderate to advanced cases involving bone loss:
- Surgical flap procedures to clean infected tissue
- Bone regeneration (bone grafting) to restore lost structure
- In rare cases: implant removal, followed by a new treatment plan
Why Choose Dr. Abdulrahman Ozturk’s Clinic in Istanbul?
Dr. Abdulrahman Ozturk’s clinic is renowned for its excellence in dental implant care, periodontology, and complex treatment planning, making it the best choice in Turkey for managing peri-implantitis.
✔️ Highly skilled team of implantologists and periodontists
✔️ Advanced diagnostic tools (3D CBCT imaging)
✔️ Non-invasive laser-assisted therapies
✔️ Custom treatment plans based on each patient’s condition
✔️ Multilingual staff (English, Arabic, Turkish)
✔️ Strong track record of successful implant rehabilitation
🏆 Don’t ignore the warning signs. At Dr. Abdulrahman Ozturk’s Clinic, you’ll get expert care to protect your implant investment—and your long-term smile.
