Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option out there! In addition to being natural-looking, stable, and long-lasting, they are just as comfortable as real teeth. If you are feeling discomfort around your replacement tooth, this could be a sign of various issues. Continue reading to learn about the different causes of dental implant sensitivity and how this should be addressed.
Why Is Your Dental Implant Sensitive?
Dental implants aren’t real teeth, so you may be asking yourself: how can you feel pain there? While the implant itself doesn’t have any nerves, the gum tissue and teeth around it do. Pain and sensitivity of your dental implant is never a good sign. It can be a result of a dental implant failure. In addition to discomfort in the area, here are some other signs that your dental implant could be failing:
- Looseness of your restoration/implant
- Swollen and red gums
- Difficulty chewing and biting
- Gum recession near the implant
Why Else Could Your Dental Implant Be Sensitive?
Dental implant failure is the main concern when you are experiencing dental implant sensitivity. However, there are plenty of 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, including dental implant failure.
- Impacted: If food or other particles are stuck between your implant and neighboring teeth, this can cause irritation and crowd the space between your teeth.
- Crowding: When a dental implant is placed too close to the surrounding teeth, it can result in uncomfortable crowding.
My Dental Implant Is Sensitive: What Should I Do?
If you are experiencing sensitivity of your dental implant, give your dentist a call. By scheduling an emergency visit, they can examine the area to get to the root of the problem. This way, a treatment plan can be created to reduce your discomfort and restore the health of your dental implant and surrounding area. In addition to seeing your dentist, here are some ways that you can protect your dental implants:
- Eat a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone density.
- Attend regular cleaning and checkups every six months.
- Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day.
- Floss every day.
- Use anti-bacterial mouthwash to prevent gum inflammation.
- If you have bruxism (teeth grinding), as your dentist about getting a nightguard.
- Limit high-sugar foods and drinks.
- Cut out nicotine products – like cigarettes and vapes.
If you are worried about your dental implant, schedule an emergency visit with your dentist. By addressing issues right away, you may even be able to save your replacement tooth from failure!
About the Author
Dr. Robert A. Whitmore earned his dental doctorate from the Baylor School of Dentistry. Since then, he has been committed to continuing education to keep his clinical knowledge and skills sharp! To learn more about dental implants or to schedule an appointment at his office in Arlington, visit his website or call (817) 468-1212.