What Is Peri-Implantitis?
Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the tissues surrounding a dental implant. Similar to periodontitis around natural teeth, peri-implantitis involves bacterial infection that leads to progressive bone loss around the implant. Left untreated, it can result in implant loosening and failure. Laser treatment of peri-implantitis offers a targeted, minimally invasive approach to decontaminating the implant surface and the surrounding tissues, halting the disease process and supporting healing.
Laser Peri-Implantitis Treatment: Quick Facts
| Quick fact | Typical answer |
|---|---|
| Number of visits | 1 or more, plus reviews |
| Time needed | 45 to 60 minutes |
| Anesthesia | Local anesthesia |
| Recovery time | A few days |
| Follow-up | Review at 6 to 8 weeks, then maintenance every 3 months |
These are typical ranges. Your own plan is confirmed after an examination.
Signs of Peri-Implantitis
Peri-implantitis is infection around an implant that has started to destroy bone. It rarely hurts in the early stages, so bleeding is the sign to act on.
- Bleeding when you brush or floss around an implant
- Red, swollen or tender gum at an implant
- Pus or a bad taste
- Gum recession showing the metal of the implant
- A crown that feels loose
Laser Peri-Implantitis Treatment at Bensonhurst Dental Care
At Bensonhurst Dental Care, laser peri-implantitis treatment is provided by Dr. Alex Rubinshtein, who uses laser energy to access and disinfect the peri-implant pocket without damaging the implant surface. Traditional methods of cleaning around implants can scratch or alter the titanium surface, potentially worsening the problem. The laser eliminates bacteria and infected tissue with precision while preserving the integrity of the implant, making it an ideal tool for managing this condition.
What to Expect, Step by Step
- Assessment. Pockets around the implant are measured and an X-ray shows bone levels.
- Numbing. Local anesthesia is given.
- Cleaning. Deposits are removed with implant-safe instruments.
- Laser decontamination. The laser disinfects the implant surface and removes inflamed tissue.
- Review. Healing is checked at six to eight weeks and a maintenance schedule is set.
Stages of disease around an implant
| Stage | What is happening | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Peri-implant mucositis | Gum inflammation without bone loss | Professional cleaning and home care |
| Early peri-implantitis | Some bone loss | Decontamination, often with laser |
| Advanced peri-implantitis | Significant bone loss | Surgery, grafting or implant removal |
An implant can usually be saved if the infection is caught early. Bleeding around an implant is never something to wait on.
Recovery and Aftercare
After laser treatment
The first 24 hours
- Avoid chewing on the implant
- Rinse as directed
- Do not use a water flosser on the site for the first few days unless told otherwise
The following days
- Clean around the implant daily with the tools we recommend
- Stop smoking, which greatly increases the risk of relapse
- Keep three-month maintenance visits
When to Call Us
Call the office on (718) 234-3434 if you notice any of the following:
- Pus or swelling returns
- The implant or crown feels loose
- Pain increases
Why Early Detection Matters
Early detection and intervention are critical for successful peri-implantitis management. Regular implant maintenance visits with Dr. Geoffrey Rubinshtein are the first line of defense, as they allow for monitoring of the tissue and bone around each implant. When peri-implantitis is identified, Dr. Alex’s laser treatment can be coordinated with Dr. Geoffrey’s periodontal expertise to provide a comprehensive response. In more advanced cases, implant revision may be necessary if the bone loss has progressed beyond what non-surgical treatment can address.
Cost and Insurance
Laser treatment is priced by the procedure, not by the use of the laser itself. You are told the fee before treatment.
What affects the cost
- The procedure being carried out
- The number of teeth or areas treated
- The number of sessions needed
- Whether the laser is used alone or alongside another treatment
Insurance usually covers a laser procedure in the same way as the conventional version of that procedure. Therapy sessions for pain relief may not be covered. Our team can check your benefits and explain your options before treatment begins.
