What Is Peri-Implantitis And How Can I Prevent It?

What To Know About Peri-Implantitis

What Is Peri-Implantitis?
Peri-implantitis actually begins as peri-implant mucositis, which is a form of infection. This infection develops when bacteria builds up near the site of denture implants. If left untreated, this infection then develops into a disease called peri-implantitis. Peri-implantitis causes inflammation of the soft and hard tissues of the gums and can cause: 

• Bleeding
• Swelling
• Pus
• Throbbing pain
• Redness
• Bad breath
• Difficulty eating (both chewing and swallowing)
• A feeling that your denture implants are loose
• Fever
• Bone deterioration

Because the symptoms of peri-implantitis are similar to the symptoms of gingivitis, some people think they are developing gingivitis without realizing it is affecting their jawbone. Regardless of which condition you have, if you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, you need to visit a dentist. If you are experiencing pain in your mouth accompanied by a fever, visit a dentist or doctor right away. This can be a sign of severe infection that can be highly dangerous.

How to Prevent Peri-Implantitis
To prevent the development of this disease, you need to properly care for your denture implants. This involves daily, at-home care for your denture implants as well as biannual denture implant cleanings. To care for your denture implants at home, make sure you brush them every night and morning. While the material of your denture implant is not susceptible to deterioration like natural teeth, this does help to clear bacteria out of the mouth. Make sure that when you are brushing your implants, you are taking care to also brush your gums, cheeks, and tongue, as these areas also carry bacteria. Your denturist should explain proper care for your denture implants when you get them.

Another important way to prevent peri-implantitis is to quit smoking. Smoking greatly increases your risk for oral health complications as it both lowers your immune system and exposes your mouth to a variety of chemicals. It is estimated that people who smoke are twice as likely to develop oral health issues compared to non-smokers.

A Note About Flossing
Although we are often taught that flossing is good for gum health, there are some complications if you have denture implants. With natural teeth, the gums adhere to the tooth using periodontal ligaments, so flossing deep into the gum socket is safe and healthy. With denture implants, however, those periodontal ligaments are not present. Instead, the denture implants have a peri-implant seal that does not have nerves in it the way periodontal ligaments do. Because of this, if the peri-implant seal is broken, you will not feel it. If the peri-implant seal is broken, it allows bacteria into the gum pocket and down to the jaw, which can cause peri-implantitis. Because of this, if you do attempt to floss under your denture implants you must use extreme caution and you should discuss this with your denturist before trying to floss on your own.

Protect Against Peri-Implantitis By Speaking To A Calgary Denturist

Although denture implants carry a risk of developing peri-implantitis, this condition is not common and can be avoided with proper oral care. In general, many people enjoy dental implants as an alternative to complete dentures, as denture implants create a natural-looking and feeling smile. If you are interested in denture implants, speak with the staff at Future Smiles Denture Clinic in Calgary and learn more about this option, including any oral health concerns. To speak with the team at Future Smiles Denture Clinic in Calgary, you can visit the SW Calgary Denture clinic on Macleod or the NE Calgary location in Coral Springs. To book a free consultation with our Calgary Denturist, call 1-403-475-0016 or fill out the online contact form.

FAQ

Q: How can I protect my oral health as a person who wears dentures?
A: You can protect your oral health from peri-implantitis, gingivitis, and more by regularly cleaning your dentures and by quitting smoking. If you have (or are considering) dentures, read How Denture Wearers Can Support Their Oral Health.

Q: Do I still need to visit the dentist if I have dentures?
A: Yes. Your mouth is still exposed to bacteria every day and needs cleaning. Visiting the dentist twice a year will help patients with denture implants prevent peri-implantitis, but it is highly beneficial for all denture wearers. To learn more, read National Denture Care Month: Do I Still Need To See A Denturist If I Wear Dentures?

Q: I’m looking for affordable denture solutions. What options do I have?
A: At Future Smiles Dentures Clinic, we know that Calgarians are looking for low-cost, stress-free denture payment plans. This is why we offer affordable denture solutions, including direct billing and financing.