An Individualized Approach to Peri-Mucositis Prevention

By Christine DeBaz, BA, Lisa Lang, BSDH, DDS, MS, MBA, Leena Palomo, DDS, MSD

Peri-implantitis and peri-implant disease are nonspecific terms for infection or inflammation around a dental implant, which can affect surrounding soft and hard tissue. As such, these conditions warrant more specific terminology, identification, and action.^1,2 Peri-implant mucositis occurs when inflammation is present in the mucosa surrounding the dental implant with no sign of supporting bone loss, as it most often precedes bone loss.³ True peri-implantitis occurs when inflammation spreads from the soft tissue to the underlying bone, causing bone loss. Roos-Jansaker et al⁴ report that peri-implant mucositis occurs in 48% of implants 9 years to 14 years post-surgery. Oral health professionals can make a significant difference in the health of patients with peri-mucositis by arresting the disease process; thus, preventing the loss of surrounding bone.⁵

* References can be found in the original article via the link below.
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