What does “Peri-implant mucositis” mean?
Peri-implant mucositis is inflammation of the soft tissues around an implant without progressive supporting bone loss caused by inflammation.
Inflammation presenting with bleeding and swelling
Plaque around an implant may cause swollen gums or bleeding during examination or brushing. Inflammation can be present without obvious pain. Gum examination and imaging comparison when needed distinguish it from peri-implantitis involving bone changes.
A cleanable environment and professional care
Treatment centers on home hygiene and professional plaque removal. If prosthesis contours impede cleaning, tools and contours may need adjustment. Cement-retained prostheses are also checked for excess cement beneath the gum.
Why reassessment is needed after treatment
After changes in care and removal of deposits, bleeding and inflammation are reassessed. Rinses or antibiotics do not replace mechanical cleaning, and antibiotics are not routinely used for every case of mucositis. Persistent inflammation calls for reassessment of cleaning obstacles and diagnosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do mucositis and peri-implantitis differ?
Mucositis is soft-tissue inflammation, while peri-implantitis involves inflammation with loss of implant-supporting bone. Bleeding alone cannot distinguish them.
Should I stop brushing if there is bleeding?
Leaving plaque in place may perpetuate inflammation. Ask the dentist about suitable cleaning for the area, and seek professional assessment and care if bleeding recurs.
Questions about peri-implant mucositis
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Are there also changes in surrounding bone?
Explanation and evidenceClinical examination and imaging comparison when needed distinguish mucositis from peri-implantitis, beyond gum bleeding alone.
European Federation of Periodontology · Peri-implant Diseases - A choice suited to your condition
Can I actually clean around the prosthesis?
Explanation and evidenceIdentify contours and deposits that impede cleaning, then reassess the response after hygiene instruction and professional cleaning.
European Federation of Periodontology · S3 Guideline: Peri-implant Mucositis
