Dental Implant Considerations in Patients with Periodontal Disease

Dental implants have transformed the prosthetic replacement of teeth. Plaque biofilm is the primary etiologic agent for periodontitis and peri-implantitis. Dental plaque biofilm induced inflammation and associated tissue destruction endanger the success and survival of dental implants more than the way it affects natural teeth. Existing periodontitis / history of periodontal disease is considered as a risk factor for peri-implantitis. Meticulous plaque control should be established and comprehensive periodontal therapy executed to obtain periodontal disease stability before dental implant provision. Maintenance of implant is more difficult than maintenance of teeth. Hence extracting teeth for the sake of replacement with implants is not always a good alternative. The general considerations for successful implant placement and maintenance in periodontitis patients are discussed.