Have you invested in dental implants only to discover signs of infection? Are you worried about losing your implant and wondering if there’s hope for saving it? At Downtown Dental Specialty in San Diego, CA, we understand your concerns and are here to provide expert care for your dental implants, including addressing infections.
What is an Infected Dental Implant?
An infected dental implant, or peri-implantitis, is a condition where bacteria accumulate around the implant site, leading to inflammation of the surrounding gum tissue and potential bone loss. This infection can occur shortly after implant placement or years later, often due to poor oral hygiene, smoking, or underlying health conditions. If left untreated, peri-implantitis can lead to implant failure, making early detection and treatment crucial for preserving your dental implant.
How Infected Dental Implants Are Treated
Treating an infected dental implant involves a multi-step approach to eliminate the infection and preserve the implant. The specific treatment plan will depend on the severity of the infection and how early it’s caught. Here are some common treatment methods:
● Professional cleaning and decontamination of the implant surface
● Antibiotic therapy (local or systemic) to combat bacterial infection
● Surgical interventions to remove infected tissue and promote healing
● Bone grafting to restore lost bone around the implant
● Adjustments to the prosthetic crown to improve cleanability
● Laser therapy to eliminate bacteria and stimulate healing
What to Expect at Your Infected Dental Implant Appointment in San Diego
When you visit Downtown Dental Specialty for an infected dental implant, here’s what you can expect:
1. Examination: Our specialists will thoroughly examine your implant, surrounding tissues, and overall oral health. We use advanced imaging techniques to assess bone levels and the extent of the infection.
2. Diagnosis and discussion: Based on our findings, we’ll discuss the diagnosis with you and explain the severity of the infection. We’ll take the time to answer all your questions and address any concerns you may have.
3. Treatment plan development: We’ll create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific case. This plan will outline the steps needed to save your implant and restore your oral health.
4. Initial treatment: Depending on the severity, we may begin treatment immediately. This could involve professional cleaning, antibiotic application, or scheduling a follow-up appointment for more extensive procedures.
5. Post-treatment care instructions: We’ll provide detailed instructions on how to care for your implant at home during the healing process. This may include special cleaning techniques, dietary recommendations, and medication instructions.
6. Follow-up appointments: We’ll schedule follow-up visits to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. These appointments are crucial for ensuring the long-term success of your implant.
Why Choose Downtown Dental Specialty
At Downtown Dental Specialty in San Diego, we’re committed to providing exceptional care for your dental implants:
● Expertise in implant dentistry and advanced periodontal treatments
● State-of-the-art technology for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment
● Personalized care tailored to your unique needs and concerns
FAQs
Q: Can an infected dental implant be saved?
Yes, an infected dental implant can be saved in many cases if the infection is caught early and treated promptly. The success rate depends on factors such as the severity of the infection, the amount of bone loss, and how quickly treatment is sought.
Q: What are the signs of a dental implant infection?
Common signs include redness, swelling, and tenderness around the implant site, bleeding when brushing, bad breath or taste, and looseness of the implant or crown. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact us immediately for an evaluation.
Q: How long does it take to treat an infected dental implant?
The treatment timeline can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the chosen treatment method. Some cases may resolve in a few weeks with non-surgical treatments, while more severe cases requiring surgery may take several months for complete healing.
Your Dental Implant Health is Our Priority
Diagnosing an infected dental implant early and seeking prompt treatment is key to saving your implant and maintaining oral health. At Downtown Dental Specialty, we have the expertise and technology to effectively treat any signs of dental implant infection. Don’t wait if you suspect a problem with your dental implant – early intervention can make all the difference.
Take the first step towards saving your dental implant and restoring your oral health. Contact Downtown Dental Specialty today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation of your dental implant in San Diego, CA.
