Can Dental Implants Get Infected?
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There is no question that dental implants have changed the world of restorative dentistry, allowing patients to restore missing or damaged teeth while retaining their facial structure and allowing them to eat, speak, and function just as well — if not better than — with their natural teeth. While dental implants can potentially last a lifetime, it is important to understand that, like natural teeth and other restorations, dental implants can become infected. This can lead to serious consequences like decay, gum disease, and even failure of the dental implant, which may require a repeat surgical procedure and extensive treatments to restore dental and oral health.
Still, with proper care and maintenance, most patients enjoy their dental implants for decades without complications. Here, Houston, TX dental implant specialists Dr. Spiker Davis and Dr. Matt Guerre share important information about what could cause a dental implant to get infected, how to avoid dental implant infection, and what to do if you think your dental implant is infected.
How do dental implants work?
To understand how and why dental implants get infected in certain cases, it is helpful to know some of the basics of dental implants. One of the most common misconceptions about dental implants is that a dental implant is a replacement tooth. In reality, the implant is a metal screw that is surgically inserted into the jawbone to replace the natural tooth root, and a dental restoration — like a dental crown, dentures, or bridge — is then attached to the implant.
Can a dental implant get infected?
Dental implants, or the tissue and even bone surrounding a dental implant, can become infected for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common causes of dental implant infection include:
- Poor dental/oral hygiene, particularly during recovery after dental implant surgery
- Incomplete integration of the dental implant with the bone
- Food particles/debris stuck in the vicinity
- Gum disease
- Smoking
- Certain health conditions
How can you prevent a dental implant from getting infected?
One of the most effective ways to avoid a dental implant infection includes taking proper care of your teeth and gums with daily brushing, flossing, and oral hygiene steps as recommended — most of which are the same as they'd be for natural teeth. Choosing healthy lifestyle habits, like avoiding tobacco and nicotine, is also important for maintaining the integrity of dental implants.
How do you know if a dental implant is infected?
There are a number of symptoms of an infected dental implant that warrant a call to the dentist. Some of the most telling signs that a dental implant is infected include:
- Tooth pain or tenderness
- Tender or swollen gums
- Bleeding around gumline
- Foul taste or odor in your mouth
- Dental implant feels loose
If you are experiencing a loose dental implant or any of the other signs of an infected dental implant above, or if you have any concerns about changes in your dental or oral comfort after getting dental implants, don't hesitate to call our friendly team to schedule an evaluation right away. Generally speaking, the sooner you address a dental implant infection, the more convenient and successful the treatment and intervention may be.
Suspect a dental implant infection? Call our dental implant specialists in Houston, TX
For the majority of patients, dental implant surgery is without complication and allows them to enjoy a stronger, healthier, more complete smile. In the rare case that a dental implant complication like infection occurs, our team is here to help restore your dental health and give you the peace of mind you deserve. Whether you suspect an infected tooth implant or have questions about your options for dental implant surgery in Houston, TX, contact us at Cosmetic Dental Associates to schedule a consultation with Dr. Spiker Davis or Dr. Matt Guerre today.