Dental implants are one of the most reliable tooth-replacement options available today. With proper care, they can last decades. But like any medical procedure, problems can develop—especially when inflammation around the implant goes untreated. The most common cause is a condition called peri-implantitis.
At Viruet Periodontics, we specialize in diagnosing, treating, and preventing peri-implant disease so patients can protect their investment and maintain a healthy smile.
What Is Peri-Implantitis?
Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the gum and bone surrounding a dental implant. Think of it as the implant version of gum disease. Over time, it leads to bone loss, gum infection, and ultimately implant loosening or failure if not treated early.
Fast facts:
- Starts silently, often without pain
- Can occur months or years after implant placement
- Affects roughly 10–20% of implants
- Highly treatable when diagnosed early
Common Symptoms of Peri-Implantitis
Patients often come to us unsure whether their implant is “just irritated” or experiencing something more serious. Here are the most common warning signs:
- Bleeding when brushing around the implant
- Swollen or tender gums
- Bad taste or persistent bad breath
- Gum recession around the implant
- Visible exposed implant threads
- Loose implant or crown
- Pus or drainage around the area
If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an evaluation promptly—early treatment dramatically improves success rates.
Why Dental Implants Fail
Implant failure is uncommon, but when it does happen, peri-implantitis is usually the culprit. Some of the most common contributing factors include:
1. Poor Oral Hygiene
Even though implants don’t decay, the surrounding gums still require consistent, thorough cleaning.
2. Smoking or Vaping
Nicotine restricts blood flow, slows healing, and increases infection risk.
3. Untreated Gum Disease
Patients with a history of periodontal disease are more likely to develop peri-implantitis—another reason to have a periodontist involved in implant care.
4. Bite Problems
Grinding, clenching, or an uneven bite places abnormal stress on implants.
5. Improper Implant Placement
Angled or shallow implant positioning can lead to inflammation and bone loss over time.
How We Diagnose Peri-Implantitis at Viruet Periodontics
As specialists in gum and bone health, we use advanced diagnostic tools to determine the exact stage and severity of the disease:
- 3D imaging (CBCT) to evaluate bone support
- Pocket depth measurements around the implant
- Mobility assessment
- Gum tissue evaluation for inflammation and recession
This allows us to create a personalized treatment plan to stabilize the implant and stop bone loss.
Treatment Options for Peri-Implantitis
Your treatment depends on how advanced the infection is.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Ideal for early-stage peri-implant mucositis:
- Deep cleaning around the implant
- Laser therapy
- Antimicrobial rinses or localized antibiotic therapy
- Bite adjustments
Surgical Regenerative Therapy
For moderate to advanced peri-implantitis:
- Removal of infected tissue
- Thorough implant surface detoxification
- Bone grafting and membrane placement
- Possible soft-tissue graft for better gum support
Implant Removal & Replacement (Only if Necessary)
If an implant cannot be saved, we offer extraction, full site cleaning, and future implant replacement with a healthier foundation.
Can Peri-Implantitis Be Prevented?
Yes—most cases are preventable with the right home care and professional maintenance.
Prevention Tips
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle brush
- Clean between implant areas with floss, interdental brushes, or water flossers
- Avoid smoking
- Schedule professional cleanings every 3–6 months
- Ask us about customized implant-safe cleaning tools
Your implants are an investment. Long-term maintenance protects that investment better than anything else.
Why Choose Viruet Periodontics for Implant Care?
As a periodontal specialty practice, we focus exclusively on:
- Gum and bone health
- Implant placement
- Implant disease prevention and treatment
- Advanced surgical solutions
We use modern technology, gentle techniques, and personalized care to help ensure your implants last as long as possible.
If you’re experiencing symptoms—or if you simply want to protect your implant long-term—we’re here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an implant with peri-implantitis be saved?
Often yes, especially when treated early. Advanced cases may require regenerative surgery.
Is peri-implantitis painful?
Not always. Many patients have no pain until the disease becomes severe.
How long does treatment take?
Non-surgical cases may improve within weeks. Regenerative cases require a few months of healing.
Can I get a second opinion?
Absolutely. We frequently evaluate implants placed elsewhere.
Schedule an Evaluation at Viruet Periodontics
If you’re concerned about your dental implant—or want to prevent peri-implantitis—contact our Fort Myers office today. Early detection makes all the difference.
Viruet Periodontics
Specialists in Gum & Implant Health
