Because the placement of a dental implant involves attaching a prosthetic tooth to a titanium base, you don’t expect to feel any discomfort after the healing process concludes. Unfortunately, you’ve still noticed some lingering pain sensations, and you want to know why. Continue reading to find out what can contribute to sensitivity in a dental implant.
What May be Causing Your Sensitivity
When you’re experiencing any discomfort associated with a dental implant, it’s not from the prosthetic itself; it comes from the surrounding area. The problem could stem from one of the following:
Gum Infection
For dental implantation to be successful, you need healthy gums. If the soft tissue in your mouth becomes infected, it can lead to jawbone loss that leaves the implant loose and causes pain.
Additionally, if too much dental cement is used during the placement of the implant crown, the gums can become painfully infected.
Crowding
Your teeth fit snuggly inside your mouth, so there is little room for error when it comes to placing a dental implant. If the implant is inserted too close to your other tooth roots, it can place unusual pressure on the surrounding teeth, leading you to believe that the implant is failing.
Impaction
Leftover food particles that become trapped between your dental implant and natural teeth can cause sensitivity. To be on the safe side, it’s best to avoid certain foods (popcorn, nuts and others with a similar texture).
Tissue or Nerve Damage
Because dental implantation requires a surgical procedure, there is the potential of the soft tissue and nerves being damaged. The good news is that the soft tissue can heal, but nerve damage may be permanent, causing continuous pain in that part of your mouth.
Allergic Reaction
In rare cases, patients have an allergic reaction to the titanium alloy that the implant is constructed from. Some of the potential symptoms of an allergic reaction are loss of taste, swollen gums and a tingling sensation.
Signs That Your Dental Implant is Failing
A failing dental implant can also leave you in pain. Here are some of the possible indicators to be on the lookout for:
- Loose implant
- Gum recession
- Difficulty chewing
- Inflamed and tender gums
- Ongoing pain and discomfort
If you notice any of the above issues, you should reach out to your dentist as soon as possible. The sooner you’re examined and have the problem identified, the better the chance of salvaging your implant and ending the discomfort so you can get back to leading a normal life.
About the Author
Dr. Reza Jafari earned his dental degree from the Boston University School of Dental Medicine. After graduation, he received an award from the American Academy of Endodontics for excellence in Endodontics. Throughout his career, Dr. Jafari has completed several hours of continuing education in a multitude of treatment areas. He takes a careful and compassionate approach to restoring his patients’ smiles with dental implants at Bell Road Dental Care, and he can be reached for more information or to schedule a visit through his website.