Preventing peri-implantitis

The findings, published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology and supported by the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP), illustrated an alarming increase in the cases of peri-implant diseases and highlighted the vital role primary oral healthcare plays in preventing them.

The report also recognised the difficulties which dentists are facing in finding workable solutions for treating peri-implantitis once it has taken hold. This further emphasises the need for accurate early identification and management of any signs of inflammation by wider dental professionals.

Michaela ONeill, president of the British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy (BSDHT), spoke about the role dental hygienists and DHTs can play in helping to prevent peri-implant diseases.

Michaela said: “Within the last couple of decades dental implants have become established as a routine and safe procedure which offers patients a more aesthetically pleasing and manageable alternative to crowns and bridges. But we have recently seen a worrying increase in the number of patients who suffer from peri-implant diseases due to poor supportive therapy, something which dental hygienists and DHTs have the ability and knowledge to prevent.