
Dental implants represent the most advanced solution for the replacement of lost or missing teeth. By serving to provide strong and stable support in much the same way as the roots of your natural teeth, dental implants can be used for the replacement of a single missing tooth or multiple ones. With dental implants, a complete and beautiful smile that looks, feels, and functions like a natural one can be re-established.
Although dental implants are not affected by tooth decay like natural teeth, it is still possible for inflammation and bone loss around a dental implant to develop that can compromise its support and lead to implant failure. This condition, which is known as peri-implant disease, resembles periodontal disease and can involve just the soft tissues like gingivitis or progress to a more advanced stage like periodontitis with accompanying bone loss.
If you are experiencing pain around a dental implant or bleeding gums when you brush the area, it is important to contact our periodontist for care. With early intervention and therapy the health and function of dental implants that are at risk of failure can often be restored. As a skilled and accomplished periodontist, Dr. Adam L. Bear, has extensive experience in all facets of periodontal care and implant surgery, including the treatment of peri-implant disease and defects. Using the latest technology and proven methods of care, Dr. Bear will diagnose and treat the underlying cause of the problem as well as reconstruct areas of tissue loss to improve the support and health of the gums and bone around the dental implant.
Failing dental implants occur when inflammation, bone loss, or infection around the implant compromises stability and function. A periodontal specialist performs a clinical exam and imaging to diagnose peri-implant disease and implant failure.
Dental implant failure can be caused by peri-implant disease, bone loss, poor oral hygiene, systemic health issues, bite overload, or inadequate bone support.
Common signs include pain around the implant, gum bleeding when brushing, swelling, mobility of the implant, and bone loss visible on X-rays.
Yes. With early intervention and proper periodontal therapy, the health and function of implants at risk can often be restored without complete removal.
Peri-implant disease is inflammation of the tissues around an implant that can lead to bone loss and eventual failure if not treated promptly by a periodontist.
Treatment may include deep cleaning around the implant, surgical intervention to repair tissue loss, bone regeneration, and targeted periodontal therapy to eliminate infection and rebuild support.
Recovery varies by procedure but typically involves a few days of healing for soft tissue therapy and several weeks for bone regeneration before full implant support is reestablished.
Good candidates are patients experiencing signs of failing implants, including pain or gum changes, and those committed to periodontal care, oral hygiene, and follow-up treatment.
Prevention includes excellent oral hygiene, regular professional cleanings, monitoring for early signs of infection, and addressing risk factors such as smoking or uncontrolled medical conditions.
Yes. A periodontist specializes in gum and bone health and has the expertise to diagnose peri-implant disease, treat failing implants, and perform advanced reconstructive procedures.
Please note: Summer hours may vary. We are open 1 Saturday a month, please call to confirm.
Please note: Summer hours may vary.