German dentist Jürgen Schmidt reported that there is an inflammation that can affect the tissues around a dental implant, due to risk factors including poor oral hygiene, smoking, psychological stress, and hormonal changes. He explained that the symptoms of peri-implantitis include itching at the implant site, swelling, and bleeding, as well as a foul odor from the mouth. Dr. Schmidt stressed the need to consult a doctor immediately upon noticing these symptoms to undergo treatment in a timely manner, as the inflammation can attack the jawbone and cause damage, which can lead to serious consequences, such as the implant losing its stability. If peri-implantitis is diagnosed, the dentist will remove bacteria from the implant surface, sometimes surgically depending on the severity of the case, while treating the surrounding tissues. To prevent inflammation, the implant should be cleaned well to remove bacteria that can cause it, and the spaces between teeth should be cleaned using an interdental brush or dental floss, for example, along with regular dental check-ups.
