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Infections around dental implants can jeopardize your investment, oral health, and comfort.
This blog explains what causes dental implant infections, how to recognize symptoms early and tips to avoid complications before and after your dental procedure.
We offer free dental implant consultations at our locations in Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, Tempe and Show Low.
Table of Contents
- What Is a Dental Implant Infection?
- How to Treat Infection Around Dental Implant
- Planning for a Dental Implant? Here’s How to Prevent Infection
- Why Patients Trust AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons
- FAQs About Dental Implant Infection
- Partner With AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons
A dental implant infection, or peri-implantitis, is a form of gum disease that causes inflammation, bone loss, and risk of implant failure. With prompt treatment and proper care, this condition can be avoided and managed effectively.
What Is a Dental Implant Infection?
A dental implant infection, also called peri-implantitis, is inflammation or bacterial buildup around the implant site.
It affects the soft tissues and can lead to bone loss if left untreated. This condition can occur shortly after dental implant placement or years later, depending on your oral hygiene routine, habits, and medical background.
Infections typically occur for the following reasons:
- Poor oral hygiene: Plaque and bacteria collect around the gumline, just like with natural teeth.
- Smoking or vaping: Nicotine restricts blood flow and impairs healing.
- Uncontrolled diabetes: Weakened immune responses allow bacterial infection to grow.
- Improper placement: Misaligned implants may leave pockets where bacteria can thrive.
- Lack of maintenance: Skipping regular checkups can prevent early detection of problems.
- Grinding or clenching: Excess pressure can stress the implant and surrounding tissue.
Symptoms Peri-Implantitis
Dental implant infections do not always cause pain right away, which is why it is important to recognize the early warning signs.
Common symptoms of infection include:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
- Pain when chewing or touching the implant
- Pus or drainage from the implant site
- Loose implant or wobbly implants
- Exposed implant threads
If you notice any of these symptoms, call your oral surgeon immediately.
How to Treat Infection Around Dental Implant
Early intervention is key. Treatment depends on how severe the implant infection is.
Mild cases:
- Professional cleaning: Removes plaque and tartar around the implant.
- Antibiotic treatment: Topical or oral medication to stop bacterial infection.
- Antimicrobial mouth rinse: Reduces the risk of infection between visits.
Moderate cases:
- Laser therapy or mechanical cleaning: Deep cleaning around the implant surface.
- Gum therapy: Targets inflammation below the soft tissues.
Severe infections:
- Surgical procedure: Flap surgery to clean infected areas.
- Bone grafting procedure: Restores lost bone tissue around the implant.
- Implant removal and replacement implant: If the infected dental implant cannot be saved.
Planning for a Dental Implant? Here’s How to Prevent Infection
The best way to prevent an implant infection is to prepare and care for your oral health before and after the implant procedure.
Before your implant:
- Get a full evaluation: Address any form of gum disease or decay beforehand.
- Discuss medical history: Share any chronic conditions that may affect healing.
- Stop smoking: Quit before and after surgery to avoid poor healing. Many patients take this opportunity to quit smoking altogether.
- Follow your oral surgeon’s instructions: Use prescribed rinses and medications as directed.
After placement:
- Brush and floss daily: Maintain a strong oral hygiene routine around the implant.
- Attend regular checkups: These appointments allow us to monitor healing and catch signs of infection early.
- Watch for changes: Report sensitivity, swelling, or unusual odor quickly.
- Get regular professional cleaning: Routine dental visits help remove plaque before it hardens into tartar and contributes to infection.
Why Patients Trust AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons
We prioritize long-term oral health with a conservative, patient-centered approach.
- We preserve your natural smile: We only remove or replace teeth when truly necessary.
- We focus on prevention: Our team teaches you how to maintain your implant at home.
- We explain all options: We help you make informed decisions with full transparency.
- We provide value: Our board-certified oral surgeons solve problems the right way.
- We listen: Every concern is valid and gets our full attention.
- We are trusted: Patients across Arizona rely on our team for advanced care in implant dentistry and oral surgery.
FAQs About Dental Implant Infection
Yes, if caught early. Mild to moderate cases respond well to cleaning, antibiotic treatment, and laser therapy.
Infections can happen days, weeks, or even years later. Maintenance and monitoring are critical to reduce the risk of complications.
Ignoring it can lead to bone loss, implant failure, and more costly repair procedures. It may even damage adjacent real teeth or cause tooth loss.
Partner With AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons
Protect your smile with expert care you can trust. Improve your chances of success with proactive care before and after dental implant placement.
To schedule a free dental implant consultation at one of our 5 locations, call (480) 830-5866 or complete the online inquiry form. We have locations in Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, Tempe or Show Low.
