Larry P. Bleier D.M.D.
205 Washington Avenue Endicott, NY, 13760
Diplomate American Board of Periodontology
Specialist in Periodontics
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(607) 785-3007

Can Dental Implants Develop Periodontal Disease From My Existing Teeth Having Periodontal Disease? DENTAL IMPLANTS?? NOT SO FAST!

Yes, having active untreated periodontal disease is an internationally well known risk factor for the infection spreading to dental implants placed in the same mouth.

Both peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis are characterized by an inflammatory reaction in the tissues surrounding a dental implant that can lead to tissue destruction and ultimately, implant failure. Peri-implant mucositis is confined to the soft tissue with no sign of supporting bone loss. Peri-implantitis, similar to periodontitis, results in inflammation around the soft tissue as well as progressive bone loss. Additionally, peri-implant mucositis may be successfully treated using nonsurgical efforts if detected early, whereas periimplantitis usually requires surgical treatment.

Recent reports revealed that peri-implant mucositis was present in 48 percent of implants followed from 9 to 14 years after placement. However, because peri-implant mucositis is reversible with early intervention, it is quite possible that its prevalence could be under-reported. Research concerning peri-implantitis reported distinct differences in the incidence and prevalence from numerous authors with studies ranging from 6.61 percent disease prevalence over a 9-14 year period to 36.6 percent with a mean of 8.4 years after loading.

According to Paul Rosen, DMD, MS, Chair of the AA P Task Force on Peri-implantitis, "Although there are widespread clinical reports where dental implants have achieved long-term success, it is important for dental professionals to understand that peri-implant mucositis or peri-implantitis may arise from a failure to identify risk factors, improper treatment planning, suboptimal surgical or prosthetic execution, and/or improper maintenance care. We can't ignore the reality that patients could be suffering from peri-implant mucositis or peri-implantitis and should continually work towards understanding the disease, treatment and contributing risk factors."