What is peri-implantitis?
Peri-implantitis is the term for an inflammation around a dental implant,
i.e. for pathological changes of the tissue surrounding the implant.
Depending on the severity and nature of the inflammation, peri-implantitis
is sub-classified as
- peri-implant mucositis
- marginal peri-implantitis
- retrograde peri-implantitis
Peri-implant mucositis
The soft tissue surrounding the implant becomes inflamed, as in gingivitis.
It is usually reversible, i.e. it can subside without further sequelae.
Marginal peri-implantatis
If peri-implant mucositis is not treated in time, progressive bone loss also
occurs, in a process similar to that seen in parodontitis, which is usually
not or only slightly reversible. Marginal peri-implantitis is therefore generally
not reversible and can only under certain circumstances be brought under
control by surgery.
Retrograde peri-implantitis
This is a special case which only occurs rarely. It is due to residual scar
and granulation tissue. As a rule it can be well controlled by curettage of the
affected area.
