Dental implants are designed to function just like natural teeth, restoring your ability to chew, smile, and speak with confidence. One of their many advantages is that they don’t typically cause tooth sensitivity like natural teeth might. That’s because implants are made of titanium and porcelain, and they don’t have nerves. So, if you’re feeling sensitivity or discomfort around your dental implant, it may be a sign that something needs attention. Let’s explore the possible reasons for sensitivity in a dental implant and when you should talk to your dentist.
Healing After Surgery
If your implant was placed recently, some sensitivity is normal during the healing process. After the implant post is inserted into the jawbone, your body begins a process called osseointegration, where the bone fuses to the implant. During this time, mild soreness or discomfort around the area is expected.
However, this sensation should gradually improve over a few days or weeks. If the sensitivity worsens or lingers for more than a month, it may indicate another issue.
Gum Irritation or Inflammation
Sometimes, the soft tissue around the implant can become irritated or inflamed, especially if plaque accumulates or the area isn’t being cleaned properly. This condition is known as peri-implant mucositis and is similar to gingivitis.
If left untreated, this inflammation can develop into peri-implantitis, a more serious condition involving bone loss. Sensitivity, redness, bleeding gums, or a bad taste in your mouth may all be warning signs.
Maintain excellent oral hygiene and see your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and monitoring of your implant health.
Bite Misalignment or Pressure Issues
If your implant crown isn’t fitting properly or if your bite has shifted over time, the implant may be experiencing excessive force when you chew. Though the implant itself has no nerves, the surrounding tissues and bone can react with tenderness or sensitivity.
A misaligned bite can also lead to loosening of the implant or damage to adjacent teeth. Your dentist can adjust your crown or bite to evenly distribute pressure and relieve the discomfort.
Nerve Irritation or Damage
In rare cases, sensitivity around a dental implant can be due to nerve involvement, especially if the implant is placed too close to a nerve in the jaw. This can result in tingling, numbness, or ongoing sensitivity in the surrounding area.
If you experience unusual or persistent sensations, notify your dentist or oral surgeon immediately.
Infection
Although dental implant infections are uncommon, they can occur, especially if oral hygiene isn’t maintained or if bacteria enter the site during or after surgery. Signs of infection include:
- Throbbing pain.
- Swelling or redness.
- Pus discharge.
- Persistent sensitivity.
In the case of an infection, seek immediate dental care. Early treatment may save the implant and prevent further complications.
Sensitivity in or around a dental implant is not typical, and it often signals that something isn’t quite right. Whether it’s a healing issue, gum inflammation, a bite problem, or something more serious, don’t ignore discomfort. Prompt evaluation by your dentist can help determine the cause and ensure your implant remains secure and healthy for years to come.
About the Practice
At Peabody Smile Design, we’re all about maintaining your oral health and giving you the most beautiful smile possible – that’s why we offer the highest-rated tooth restoration available: dental implants. Our all-inclusive implant treatments are administered by a dentist with special training. Also, we offer fully customized treatment plans for our patients, so you’ll never feel like just another case in our office. Come see why our patients trust us with their smiles! Schedule an appointment online or call (978) 278-5478.