Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option out there. Since they replace the roots of the missing teeth, implants allow for numerous additional benefits. This includes comfort, stability, and longevity. If your dental implant is feeling sensitive or painful, this could be a sign that something isn’t quite right. Continue reading to learn which steps you should take if you find yourself in this situation.
Why Does Your Dental Implant Feel Sensitive?
Dental implants aren’t real teeth, so you may be wondering why you are feeling discomfort in that area. The implant itself may not have any nerves, but the gum tissue and teeth around it do. Pain and sensitivity of your dental implant is never a good sign. The biggest concern is dental implant failure. In addition to discomfort in the area, here are some signs that your dental implant could be failing:
- Looseness of your implant/restoration
- Swollen, red gums
- Pain when chewing or biting
- Gum recession near the dental implant
What Else Can Cause Dental Implant Sensitivity?
Dental implant failure is the main concern when you are experiencing dental implant sensitivity. However, there are many other possible causes. Here are some of the most common:
- Gum Disease: if you have a gum infection near your dental implant, it can cause you to experience sensitivity in that area. When left untreated, it can progress and lead to serious complications, like dental implant failure.
- Impaction: If food or other particles become stuck between your dental implant and neighboring teeth, this can result in irritation and crowd the spaces between the teeth.
- Crowded: When a dental implant is placed too close to the surrounding teeth, it can cause discomfort.
What Should I Do If My Dental Implant Is Sensitive?
If you have dental implant sensitivity, give your dentist a call. By scheduling an emergency visit, they can examine the area to get to the root of the issue. This way, a treatment plan can be made to reduce your discomfort and restore the health of your dental implant and surrounding teeth. In addition to seeing your dentist. Here are a handful of ways you can promote the health of your dental implant:
- Maintain a diet rich in calcium & vitamin D to support healthy bone density
- Attend regular cleaning & checkups twice annually
- Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day
- Floss every day
- Use antimicrobial mouthwash to prevent gum inflammation
- If you have bruxism, ask your dentist about getting a nightguard
- Moderate your consumption of high-sugar and starchy foods & drinks
- Cut out nicotine products
If you have concerns regarding your dental implant, schedule an emergency visit with your dentist. When you address the issue quickly, you are more likely to save your restoration from failure.
About the Author
Dr. Daniel Weldon is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for more than a decade. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry and is committed to continuing education to keep his knowledge and skills sharp. Currently, he is a proud member of the Florida Dental Association, American Dental Association, and American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. If you have concerns regarding your dental implant, he would be happy to help. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (352) 622-3236.