Red, irritated, puffy, bleeding gums are absolutely excruciating. It is just the worst. If you care for your teeth, the last thing you want to deal with is an inflamed or infected gum, tooth, or dental implant. It happens though, and sometimes there is nothing you can do. Once you notice an infected dental implant, treat the symptoms, see your dentist, and keep it clean. With time the problem should clear itself right up.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implant are synthetic teeth that are anchored into your jaw through your gum. Your body actually incorporates these metal anchors into your jaw, through a process called osseointegration. Once these anchors are secure, your synthetic teeth can be attached securely, giving you the benefits of realistic, functional, durable teeth. Dental implants carry all the benefits of your regular teeth, and are often more durable. However, this leaves them exposed to the same issues, like infection.
Why do implants become infected?
When implant anchors are placed in the jaw, they penetrate the gums. The exposure to the gums, either from this drilling or the synthetic tooth itself, can create a space for harmful bacteria to fester. As this bacteria spreads and develops, it can cause your bodies immune response system to activate. This can lead to pus, blood, redness, puffiness, and sensitivity in the gum and tooth.
How can you tell if your Implant is infected?
Sign of an Infected Dental Implant include
* Difficulty or pain chewing
* Redness and Irritation
* Pain
* Bad Breath
* Bad Taste in your mouth
* Noticeable bleeding after brushing or flossing
* Looseness or wobbling while chewing
* Physical damage to the implant or jaw, like visible gum damage
If you notice any of these symptoms, or suspect you have a dental implant infection, see a dentist promptly.
What risks are associated with Infected Dental Implants?
Infections in your dental implant can cause you a lot of pain. Infections can lead to tooth loss, or failure of the implant. The infection can spread throughout your mouth, or other parts of your body through your blood. Infections make you sick, and Dental Implants are not cheap. So you want to do everything you can to cut this off at the pass, and treat the problem quickly.
What should I do if I suspect I have an Infected Dental Implant?
If you are noticing bleeding around your implant, looseness in your implant, intense pain, pus, blood, or inflammation–It is time to see your dentist. Dental hygiene is the biggest course of recommendation, but your dental care team is the expert in this arena. You definitely want to see your dentist quickly and make sure this is not related to the surgery or the implant. You need to discuss what caused the issue, how to prevent it, and the health of your mouth. Follow proper hygiene routines, see your dentist and hygienist, and treat the symptoms of your infection. A little ibuprofen for the pain and some time, and you should be just fine.