Program Track: Treatment of Periodontal Diseases and Peri-Implant Diseases

Course Description: In managing the intrabony defects associated with peri-implantitis lesions, the clinician is often faced with tortuous, complex defects. Given that the vast majority of peri-implantitis sites (79%) displayed a combined defect configuration, combination therapy was introduced to treat sites with advanced peri-implantitis. A multiplicity of treatment approaches exists in terms of decontamination, stabilization and regeneration. Both degranulation and implant surface decontamination are essential for successful treatment of periimplantitis. Different approaches to both decontamination and treatment will be explored. This presentation will explore the unique properties of the Erbium wavelength in preparing both the implant surface and the osseous intrabony defect for regenerative therapy. Applicable literature will be reviewed as well as case studies demonstrating case selection, technique and materials. Additionally, implantoplasty, mechanical modification of the implant surface, will be discussed in great detail, both at implant sites where bone regeneration may not be expected (i.e., supracrestally [>1 mm] and buccally exposed implant parts) as well as sites that exhibit regenerative potential. Smoothened implant surfaces have been proven to be less prone to plaque accumulation and thus, re-infection.

The American Academy of Periodontology is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider. ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. Concerns or complaints about a CE provider may be directed to the provider or to the Commission for Continuing Education Provider Recognition at ADA.org/CERP.

The AAP cautions participants for this CE activity about the potential risks of using limited knowledge when incorporating new techniques and procedures in their practice.