Saving Failing Dental Implants
Advanced Laser Treatment for Failing Dental Implants
Innovative LAPIP Treatment for Failing Dental Implants
Dental implant complications can range from inflammation and discomfort to infection, bone loss, and eventual implant failure. These issues may develop for several reasons, including peri-implantitis, excessive forces on the implant, inadequate bone support, or other health and lifestyle factors.
Dr. Sarah Balaster offers Laser-Assisted Peri-Implantitis Procedure (LAPIP) as a minimally invasive treatment option for certain failing dental implants. LAPIP targets infection and diseased tissue surrounding the implant while preserving healthy structures and supporting the healing process.
What Is Peri-Implantitis?
Untreated peri-implantitis, analogous to gum disease affecting natural teeth, can lead to severe infection around dental implants. This condition often arises from poor oral hygiene, allowing tartar buildup that harbors harmful bacteria. Initial signs include swollen gums, tenderness, and heightened mouth sensitivity.
As peri-implantitis progresses, symptoms worsen with increased jaw pain, gum recession, deepening gum pockets, visible implant threads, pus formation, and potential implant loosening. Regular check-ups are essential to monitor implant health. If you notice persistent swelling, bleeding, discomfort, or changes around a dental implant, an evaluation can help determine the cause and whether treatment is needed.
What to Expect from LAPIP Treatment
LAPIP (Laser-Assisted Peri-Implantitis Procedure) is a minimally invasive laser treatment designed to address infection and inflammation around dental implants while preserving healthy surrounding tissue.
Before treatment, Dr. Balaster carefully evaluates the implant and surrounding structures using digital X-rays and periodontal measurements to determine the extent of infection and bone loss.
During the LAPIP procedure, the PerioLase® MVP-7™ laser is used to target and remove infected tissue and bacteria around the implant. The area is then thoroughly cleaned to create an environment that supports the body’s natural healing process.
Because LAPIP uses laser technology rather than traditional surgical techniques, treatment can often be performed with less trauma to the surrounding tissues and a more comfortable recovery.
The Benefits of LAPIP
- Minimally invasive procedure
- Minimal discomfort and downtime
- Preservation of dental implants
- High success rates
- Little to no gum recession
- Reduction in gum inflammation and bleeding
Why Choose Dr. Balaster?
Dr. Sarah Balaster is board-certified in periodontology and dental implant surgery with advanced training in laser-assisted periodontal and implant treatment. Her approach begins with identifying why an implant is experiencing complications and determining whether it can be predictably preserved.
Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, Dr. Balaster evaluates the health of the implant, surrounding bone and soft tissue, and each patient’s individual risk factors before recommending treatment. When appropriate, minimally invasive techniques such as LAPIP may offer an opportunity to treat infection and preserve the existing implant.
