Peri-implantitis treatment with GalvoSurge®

GalvoSurge® is a technology used in the surgical treatment of peri-implantitis to clean the bacterial biofilm from the surface of the dental implant. Following the evaluation, the doctor determines whether the implant can be maintained and what procedures are necessary.

"Many patients believe that the diagnosis of peri-implantitis automatically means the loss of the dental implant. In reality, when the condition is detected in time, there are modern solutions that allow us to treat the infection and save the implant. GalvoSurge is one of the most advanced technologies we use for this purpose."

- Dr. Alexandru Georgescu
Medical Director DENT ESTET
Specialist in Dento-Alveolar Surgery and Periodontology

GalvoSurge® treatment may be recommended for patients with peri-implantitis when the implant is stable but the exposed surface needs to be cleared of bacterial biofilm. The indication is established after clinical and radiological evaluation of the tissues and bone around the implant.

The physician may consider this technology in cases where:

• there is inflammation and bone loss around the implant;
• the biofilm is present in areas that are difficult to access by conventional methods;
• the implant surface needs to be cleaned during surgery;
• the implant is stable and can be maintained;
• a bone regeneration procedure is planned after decontamination.

GalvoSurge® is not automatically indicated in every case of peri-implantitis. If the implant has lost its stability or the bone damage is too extensive, the physician may recommend its removal and a different treatment plan.

The treatment plan is personalized depending on the severity of peri-implantitis, the shape of the bone defect, and the patient's overall health.

GalvoSurge® electrolytically cleans the surface of the dental implant, including the hard-to-reach areas between the coils. Unlike mechanical instruments, the system detaches bacterial biofilm without direct contact with the implant surface.

GalvoSurge® does not replace all other stages of treatment. The doctor may combine several methods, depending on the severity of peri-implantitis, the characteristics of the implant and the existing bone loss. 

The main benefit of the GalvoSurge® system is the cleaning of bacterial biofilm from the exposed surface of the implant, including between the coils and other hard-to-reach areas.

The treatment can provide the following benefits:

• electrochemical cleaning of the implant surface;
• detachment of the biofilm without direct mechanical contact with the implant;
• access to areas difficult to clean by conventional methods;
• preservation of the implant surface structure;
• preparation of the area for bone regeneration, when indicated;
• creation of favorable conditions for healing of the tissues around the implant;
• possibility of maintaining the implant, if it is stable and the clinical situation allows.

The outcome of the treatment depends on the degree of bone loss, the stability and position of the implant, control of risk factors and compliance with the monitoring program. GalvoSurge® contributes to the decontamination of the implant, but does not guarantee its salvation in all cases.

An implant affected by peri-implantitis can be maintained if it is stable and the bone loss allows for treatment and monitoring of the area. The chances of success are higher when the condition is diagnosed and treated at an early stage.

The decision depends on several factors:

• the degree and form of bone loss;
• the stability and position of the implant;
• the condition of the surrounding tissues;
• access to the affected surface;
• a history of periodontitis;
• smoking and general diseases, such as diabetes;
• the ability to maintain proper oral hygiene.

GalvoSurge® can help maintain the implant by removing the bacterial biofilm from the exposed surface. If the implant is mobile, the bone loss is advanced, or its position prevents a predictable outcome, the doctor may recommend its removal and establish a new treatment plan.

Recovery after GalvoSurge® treatment is similar to that associated with gum and bone surgery. Sensitivity, local inflammation and moderate discomfort may occur in the first few days, which are managed according to the doctor's recommendations.

To support healing, the patient must follow the instructions regarding:

• administration of the prescribed treatment;
• oral hygiene in the intervention area;
• diet in the first few days;
• avoidance of smoking;
• protection of the operated area;
• attendance at scheduled check-ups.

Sutures are usually removed at the check-up established by the doctor. If a bone regeneration procedure has also been performed, healing is monitored clinically and radiologically over the following months.

Periodic check-ups and professional hygiene are essential even after healing. Bacterial biofilm can accumulate again, and peri-implantitis can recur if risk factors are not controlled.

Treatment may be recommended for patients who:

• Have been diagnosed with peri-implantitis
• Have bone loss around the implant
• Want to avoid losing the dental implant
• Are eligible for surgical treatment
• Can follow the maintenance and monitoring protocol recommended by the doctor

“Prevention of peri-implantitis begins before implant insertion. Careful assessment of risk factors, correct implant positioning, achieving stable peri-implant tissues, and implementing a rigorous maintenance protocol are essential elements for long-term peri-implant health.” 
– Dr. Alexandru Georgescu

If you have been diagnosed with peri-implantitis or are experiencing bleeding, inflammation, or discomfort around a dental implant, schedule a consultation with DENT ESTET.

Schedule an evaluation to find out if the implant can be maintained and what treatment options are appropriate.