Peri-implantitis can progress rapidly, leading to bone loss, implant mobility, and eventual failure if not treated early.

While mild inflammation may respond to non-surgical management, advanced cases often require surgical debridement, grafting, or implant removal.

Referral is advised when:

• There is bleeding, suppuration, or radiographic bone loss around an implant.

• Non-surgical therapy has failed to stabilise the condition.

• Mobility, exposure of threads, or discomfort persists despite treatment.

In an oral and maxillofacial surgery setting, surgical cleaning, regenerative bone grafting, or implant replacement can be performed under local anaesthesia or sedation.

Early management helps preserve bone and surrounding soft tissue, reducing the need for extensive reconstruction later.

When to refer to AWOMS Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: Any implant showing bone loss, mobility, or persistent infection not responding to maintenance - early referral allows salvage or replacement before further bone loss occurs.