Dental implants can last for many years, but they are not immune to problems, particularly in the surrounding gum tissue. When infection develops around an implant, LAPIP laser treatment may help control the issue and, in some cases, save the implant before it needs to be removed. Early diagnosis and treatment of peri-implantitis can help limit the damage and protect your investment in your smile.
One of the biggest threats to a dental implant is peri-implantitis. This condition is an infection that affects the gums and bone tissue around the implant. Similar to gum disease, peri-implantitis can cause inflammation and bleeding.
Over time, it may also lead to bone loss. That bone loss is a serious concern. Dental implants rely on healthy bone for support, so as the bone around an implant breaks down, the implant can become less stable. If the condition advances without treatment, removal may be the only option.
The good news is that early treatment can help prevent the damage from reaching that point. Laser-assisted peri-implantitis procedure (LAPIP) is a treatment in which a periodontist uses a dental laser to target infected tissue and bacteria around a dental implant. While traditional treatment for peri-implantitis may involve surgery to access the affected area, LAPIP laser treatment takes a less invasive approach. The laser helps remove diseased tissue and reduce bacteria without the need for large incisions in many cases.
The main benefit of LAPIP laser treatment is that it targets the underlying infection without immediately removing the implant. If the implant remains stable and enough supporting bone is present, this treatment may help preserve it. The laser can target areas around the implant where bacteria and diseased tissue have developed. After the affected area is clean and infection-free, the gums can begin to recover.
Due to the procedure being less invasive than traditional surgery, it may also mean less trauma to the gums and a more comfortable recovery. However, every case is different. The amount of bone loss, the health of the surrounding tissue, and the stability of the implant affect the treatment plan.
Peri-implantitis does not always cause obvious symptoms at first. That is one reason regular follow-up visits are important for patients with dental implants. A periodontist can check the gums, measure changes around the implant, and look for bone loss before the problem becomes severe. That said, some symptoms to watch out for include:
These symptoms do not always mean an implant is failing, but they do warrant a professional evaluation. The earlier peri-implantitis is treated, the better the chance of limiting further damage.
LAPIP laser treatment can address an existing infection. However, long-term implant health also depends on consistent care. Good oral hygiene and regular professional exams help reduce the risk of future problems.
If an implant shows signs of infection, immediate care may make the difference between saving it and replacing it. A periodontist can determine whether LAPIP laser treatment is appropriate based on the condition of the implant, gums, and supporting bone tissue.
When peri-implantitis is caught early, there may be options to protect the implant and avoid more extensive treatment later. Would you like to learn more about LAPIP laser treatment? Call our Summit office to schedule a consultation.
Request an appointment here: https://www.summitperioimplants.com or call Summit Periodontics & Dental Implants at (908) 219-6664 for an appointment in our Summit office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: LAPIP Laser Treatment in Summit, NJ.
A periodontal cleaning helps control gum disease by removing plaque and tartar from areas that brushing cannot reach. Preparing can make the visit more comfortable and help the dental team work efficiently. A general dentist may recommend this deeper cleaning when gum pockets, bleeding, or bone changes suggest periodontal disease. Read on to learn the…
Gingivitis treatment focuses on reducing plaque, controlling gum inflammation, and preventing early gum disease from progressing. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and may cause redness, swelling, tenderness, bleeding, or persistent bad breath. Because it does not always cause pain, an evaluation with a periodontist can help identify gum changes early and create…
Selecting an effective way to replace missing teeth can be a significant decision, and dental implants often offer a dependable solution that restores both function and appearance. These specialized fixtures fuse with the jawbone to form a solid foundation for replacement teeth. However, it is important to note that not everyone automatically qualifies for this…
Dental implants provide a long-lasting solution for missing teeth, offering functional and aesthetic benefits. Whether replacing a single tooth or supporting a full arch, dental implants help restore confidence and improve oral health. Understanding the essential facts about this treatment can help patients make informed decisions.Dental implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The…
