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Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory disease that affects the soft tissues and the jawbone near a dental implant. Dental implants in Wilmington are one of the most sophisticated ways of replacing missing teeth. Dental implants elegantly restore your smile, chewing capabilities, and speech. 

Dental implants are anchored to the jawbone via a surgical procedure. The implant takes over 3-6 months to integrate with the jawbone. During this phase, it’s exceptionally important for you to maintain excellent oral hygiene and follow your periodontist’s advice to ensure proper and uneventful healing. 

However, in cases of inept care post dental implant placement, certain inflammatory, and infective conditions can happen. One such condition is known as peri-implantitis. 

Peri-implantitis is characterized by the inflammation of gums and soft tissues surrounding the dental implant. Apart from this, the disease can also cause deterioration of the bone that supports dental implants. Peri-implantitis is a serious dental condition and needs the urgent attention of our skilled periodontist at Souther Delaware Dental Specialists. If left untreated, peri-implantitis often leads to dental implant failure. This means that the implant will fail to fuse with the jawbone, remain loose, and eventually fall off. 

The signs and symptoms of peri-implantitis are similar to that of gum disease. The gums around the implant will become swollen and appear red. The infected site will also bleed easily upon brushing or flossing. The implant will become loose, which may be accompanied by pain and discomfort. 

Dental implants also need regular oral health care like a natural tooth, and failure to do so will predispose them to diseases. In addition, the presence of risk factors such as smoking, diabetes, and poor nutrition also increases the likelihood of peri-implantitis. 

Therefore, a routine oral health check-up combined with impeccable oral hygiene becomes essential to maintain the health of your dental implants. You can schedule an appointment with us at Southern Delaware Dental Specialist to ensure that your oral health is at its peak. If you have any questions or want to know more about our services, please reach out to us, and we will be there to assist you.