Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option available today. 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 uncomfortable, this could be a sign that something isn’t right. Read on to learn about some of the steps you should take if you find yourself in this position.
Why Does Your Dental Implant Feel Sensitivity?
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 soft 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 or restoration
- Swollen, red gums
- Pain when chewing or biting
- Gum recession near the dental implant
What Else Can Cause Dental 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 the 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, call your dentist. This way, you can schedule an emergency visit and get to the root of the problem. A treatment plan can be made to reduce your discomfort and restore the health of your dental implant and surrounding the teeth. In addition to seeing your dentist, here are some 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 cleanings & checkups twice a year
- 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 Practice
At Neighborhood Dental – Dr. Mauri Heesch and Dr. Andrew Schuiteman work together to treat patients in the Brandon community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. If you are experiencing dental implant sensitivity, they would be happy to help. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (605) 546-9091.