Understanding the microbial ecosystem around dental implants and its role in disease

Biogeography of the peri-implant microbial ecosystem in health and during transition to disease

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11116277

This study is looking at the tiny germs around dental implants to see how they affect your immune system and can cause problems like peri-implantitis, with the goal of finding ways to keep your implants healthy and lasting longer.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11116277 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the microbial communities that inhabit the area around dental implants, focusing on how these communities interact with the host's immune system. By examining the balance between beneficial and harmful microbes, the study aims to identify factors that lead to peri-implantitis, a condition that causes implant failure. The researchers will use advanced techniques, including bioinformatics and in vitro models, to analyze these interactions and develop strategies to maintain a healthy microbial environment. This work is crucial for improving the longevity and success of dental implants for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have received dental implants or are considering them and are at risk for peri-implantitis.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have dental implants or have no interest in dental implant procedures may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for peri-implantitis, enhancing the success rates of dental implants.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding microbial ecosystems in other contexts, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.