Non-surgical management of peri-implant diseases

There are similarities between peri-implant diseases and periodontal diseases in terms of aetiology, pathogenesis and management. Patients with a past history of periodontitis are at greater risk of peri-implantitis and it is essential in partially dentate patients to ensure that control of periodontitis has been achieved before implants are placed. Careful maintenance and monitoring of implant patients should be performed on a regular basis to identify, at the earliest opportunity, the clinical and radiographic markers of peri-implant disease. Good self-performed biofilm control and professional maintenance of implants is essential to prevent the onset of peri-implant diseases. Once peri-implantitis has become established, it can initially be managed non-surgically, although surgical intervention may be required for more severe lesions.