“Can implant infection be fixed?”
My implant is infected. Can implant infection be fixed?
2 Answers
Yes, an implant infection, also known as peri-implantitis, can often be treated effectively if addressed early. At Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma, Dr. Jeremy Egan, DMD, MD, provides several treatment options to control and resolve infections around implants, helping to preserve the implant and surrounding bone.
Steps to Treat an Implant Infection
Professional Cleaning and Debridement
In cases of mild infection, Dr. Egan may perform a thorough cleaning of the implant area to remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar buildup. Specialized tools are used to clean around the implant without damaging its surface, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics may be prescribed to help control the infection. These can include oral antibiotics or, in some cases, local antibiotic therapy applied directly to the infected area. Dr. Egan will select the appropriate antibiotic based on the severity of the infection and individual needs.
Antibacterial Mouth Rinse
Using an antibacterial mouth rinse, like chlorhexidine, can help reduce bacteria in the mouth and support the healing of the implant site. This rinse is typically used alongside other treatments to enhance infection control.
Laser Therapy
In some cases, laser therapy can be used to target bacteria around the implant and reduce inflammation without harming the surrounding tissue. Laser treatment is a minimally invasive approach that promotes healing and can be effective for treating peri-implantitis.
Bone Grafting (If Necessary)
If the infection has led to bone loss around the implant, a bone graft may be necessary to restore lost bone tissue and stabilize the implant. This procedure can help rebuild the support structure around the implant, ensuring its long-term stability.
Surgical Intervention for Advanced Infections
For more advanced infections, surgical intervention may be needed. This involves lifting the gum tissue around the implant to access and thoroughly clean the infected area. Damaged tissue may be removed, and bone grafting may be used to rebuild lost bone support.
Preventing Future Implant Infections
To minimize the risk of reinfection:
Practice good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and using a water flosser if recommended.
Attend regular check-ups with Dr. Egan, as routine cleanings and early detection are essential for implant health.
Avoid smoking, as it can increase the risk of peri-implantitis and affect healing.
With prompt and appropriate treatment, implant infections can often be controlled, allowing the implant to function normally. Dr. Jeremy Egan and the team at Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma are experienced in managing peri-implantitis and will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan for restoring your implant health.
Steps to Treat an Implant Infection
Professional Cleaning and Debridement
In cases of mild infection, Dr. Egan may perform a thorough cleaning of the implant area to remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar buildup. Specialized tools are used to clean around the implant without damaging its surface, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics may be prescribed to help control the infection. These can include oral antibiotics or, in some cases, local antibiotic therapy applied directly to the infected area. Dr. Egan will select the appropriate antibiotic based on the severity of the infection and individual needs.
Antibacterial Mouth Rinse
Using an antibacterial mouth rinse, like chlorhexidine, can help reduce bacteria in the mouth and support the healing of the implant site. This rinse is typically used alongside other treatments to enhance infection control.
Laser Therapy
In some cases, laser therapy can be used to target bacteria around the implant and reduce inflammation without harming the surrounding tissue. Laser treatment is a minimally invasive approach that promotes healing and can be effective for treating peri-implantitis.
Bone Grafting (If Necessary)
If the infection has led to bone loss around the implant, a bone graft may be necessary to restore lost bone tissue and stabilize the implant. This procedure can help rebuild the support structure around the implant, ensuring its long-term stability.
Surgical Intervention for Advanced Infections
For more advanced infections, surgical intervention may be needed. This involves lifting the gum tissue around the implant to access and thoroughly clean the infected area. Damaged tissue may be removed, and bone grafting may be used to rebuild lost bone support.
Preventing Future Implant Infections
To minimize the risk of reinfection:
Practice good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and using a water flosser if recommended.
Attend regular check-ups with Dr. Egan, as routine cleanings and early detection are essential for implant health.
Avoid smoking, as it can increase the risk of peri-implantitis and affect healing.
With prompt and appropriate treatment, implant infections can often be controlled, allowing the implant to function normally. Dr. Jeremy Egan and the team at Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma are experienced in managing peri-implantitis and will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan for restoring your implant health.
In some cases
