Hygiene Atlas

Atlas · Plate X · Periodontology · 07

Implants and peri-implant disease

Implants have no periodontal ligament, so peri-implant tissues seal less well and have less blood supply. Probe with light force and treat bleeding or suppuration as a warning sign. Peri-implant mucositis is reversible inflammation; peri-implantitis adds progressive bone loss. Use implant-safe instruments and glycine or erythritol powders, and avoid APF fluoride.

High-yield facts · 6

  1. Implants have no PDL; peri-implant tissue has parallel collagen fibers, a weaker seal and less blood supply than teeth.S12
  2. Implant probing with light force is recommended; plastic probes are optional. Bleeding or suppuration on probing signals disease.S12
  3. Use plastic, resin, titanium or implant-safe tips; avoid steel instruments that scratch titanium and APF fluoride that etches it.T3T2
  4. Glycine or erythritol air polishing is effective and safe for implant biofilm.T3
  5. Peri-implantitis is more common with a history of periodontitis, poor plaque control, smoking and no maintenance.S12
  6. Get a baseline radiograph and probing at prosthesis delivery to compare against later.S12

Facts are written in our own words; each tag links to its source. Values marked "sources vary" differ between references, so check the one your program uses.