Dental implants are remarkable prosthetic appliances that allow lost or compromised teeth to be replaced with beautiful and functional restorations that look and work just like the real thing and can last for decades with proper care. While implants boast an impressive success rate of over 95% even ten years after being placed, it is possible for them to fail under certain circumstances. Here’s a quick look at why your implant may seem sensitive and how to tell if you should contact your dentist for help.
What Causes Sensitivity Around a Dental Implant?
Dental implants do not have the nerves necessary to send pain signals to the brain, so it may seem strange if you feel like your device is uncomfortably sensitive. Discomfort associated with a dental implant is usually caused by an oral infection that compromises the jawbone structure or gum tissue supporting the device, and this can lead to implant failure if it goes untreated for too long. Signs of impending dental implant failure include:
- The dental implant being loose in the gum tissue
- Swelling or redness of the gums
- Gum recession around the implant
- Pain or discomfort when chewing or biting
- Pain or discomfort in the area of the implant
If you experience sensitivity around your dental implant that doesn’t go away after about a day, contact your dentist for help.
How Can My Dentist Help?
Your dentist will be happy to address your discomfort by recommending or prescribing an appropriate pain medication, and your dental implant may be savable depending on the severity of the damage. In many cases, an implant can be saved with failure and salvage services such as gum disease treatments to address infections or bone grafts to reinforce the jawbone structure. However, an implant that cannot be saved will have to be removed and replaced after the infection is resolved.
The best ways to prevent implant failure are to practice excellent oral hygiene, protect your teeth from injury, and visit your dentist every six months for routine exams and cleanings. Consulting with your oral health provider can help you understand the best ways to keep your natural and artificial teeth in great shape.
About the Practice
Gruene Family Dental offers the finest oral health services in New Braunfels. Led by Drs. Kim Turnbow and Jamie Knox, the staff ensures that each patient enjoys pleasant and effective treatment experiences in a calming and friendly office environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as implant services. If you are concerned about the health of your dental implant, please dial the front desk at (830) 626-1111. For non-emergency inquiries, please contact the office online.