Many experts consider dental implants the ideal way to replace missing teeth because of their many unique advantages. Unlike dentures or dental bridges, they include a titanium rod inserted into your jawbone. As a result, they function as sturdy standalone structures that are usually stronger and longer lasting than the alternatives.
However, that doesn’t make them invincible. Although dental implant failure is rare, it can happen if the surgical site becomes infected. Continue reading to learn 3 indicators that let you know when yours is having problems so you can call your dentist for help!
Sign #1: Persistent Discomfort
It’s normal to feel aches and inflammation after your dental implant procedure, but these symptoms are due to swelling from the surgery and usually dissipate after a week or so. Once your gums heal enough to place your dental crown (or other appropriate restoration), you shouldn’t be feeling any throbbing.
That means if you notice any pain or sensitivity after seven to ten days, you may have a problem. If bacteria in your mouth penetrate your gums near your restoration, it can cause an infection known as peri-implantitis. Not only can the illness cause swelling and soreness, but it is also the number one leading cause of failure.
Sign #2: Mobility
Many patients take months to recover from their oral surgery because of a process called osseointegration. Once the titanium rod of your prosthetic is placed in your jaw, you must form enough new bone growth to encompass and fuse with it. This is what gives your restoration the stability it’s known for.
Unfortunately, if your jawbone isn’t thick enough or you don’t make enough new bone cells, you might not successfully complete this stage of recovery. If your implant feels wobbly or loose in your mouth, especially when eating anything overly hard or sticky, you should contact your provider so they can ensure you’re healing as intended.
Sign #3: Bleeding
If germs in your mouth infiltrate your implant site, the ensuing infection triggers an immune response in your body that causes your gums to become red and swollen. They might even ooze or bleed, or you may notice pus around your prosthetic. All of these point to an underlying infection that should be addressed immediately to keep it from spreading to neighboring teeth, your jawbone, or harming your restoration.
If you experience any other signs of a serious infection, like fever, sweating, or chills, you should head to the emergency room to get help immediately.
About the Practice
At Brown & Nawrocki Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry, patients benefit from two prosthodontists dedicated to helping them build and maintain their most beautiful and healthy smiles. Dr. Nawrocki and Dr. Dennis are both specialists who focus on providing lifelike prosthetics to restore your grin’s functionality and appearance, including dental implants. They combine a caring approach with state-of-the-art equipment to enhance patient comfort while providing realistic results intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call (386) 677-1046.