An Insight into Peri-Implantitis: A Systematic Literature Review

AIM: This systematic literature review was performed to establish a definition of peri-implantitis, what makes a patient more susceptible to peri-implantitis, the signs and symptoms of peri-implantitis (including radiographic findings), treatment options for peri-implantitis, and to investigate what constitutes a suitable oral hygiene regime. METHOD: A systematic literature review and analysis of publications included in PubMed (articles published between 1998 and 2003; English language; search terms "peri-implantitis"; "mucositis"; "partially edentulous"; "preventative maintenance"; "peri-implantitis and plaque control"; "tissue augmentation"; "diet maintenance of peri-implantitis"; "oral hygiene instruction for implants") was performed to identify papers providing information about peri-implantitis. Separately sourced publications with peri-implantitis related titles and abstracts were reviewed and analysed. The set criteria for inclusion were peer-reviewed articles. Of 53 papers identified, 23 were included for systematic review. RESULTS: Analysis of the papers revealed that patients with implants are more susceptible to developing peri-implantitis than are patients with natural teeth to developing periodontal disease. This is due to the varied peri-implant tissue that surrounds the implant in comparison with the tissue that surrounds a natural tooth. If active periodontal disease is present, peri-implantitis may also develop; however, other secondary factors may also need to be present for this to occur. CONCLUSION: A comprehensive periodontal examination should be carried out prior to implant surgery. The patient should be informed of the necessity of regular maintenance following implant surgery and the prerequisite of maintaining a comprehensive oral hygiene regime to avoid peri-implantitis.