Can a Dental Implants Get Infected Years Later?
Dental implants are the only teeth replacement treatments that can stop bone loss. The dental implants in Whitby, ON, are surgically placed on the jawbone to anchor the artificial teeth. This procedure has a success rate, and the implants can last for a lifetime with proper care. However, occasionally, something may go wrong, and you can develop an infection years later.
One of the most common dental implant complications is peri-implantitis, an infection that affects the gum tissue.
What is Peri-implantitis?
Peri-implantitis, just like most gum problems, is caused by plaques that accumulate along and around the gum line, causing an infection and inflammation. When this happens, you risk losing the implants and other associated complications. Fortunately, the implant infection is reversible if treatment is started on time.
In the early stages of the implant infection, the symptoms are relatively mild, and you may experience gum swelling, tenderness, and sensitivity.
What Causes Implant Infection?
Three primary factors can increase the risk of peri-implantitis, and they include:
- Systemic disease. Having an existing condition that affects the whole body (systemic) can predispose you to gum problems even after getting implants. If you have diabetes or other systemic diseases, it is important to consult a dentist in Brooklyn before getting the implants.
- Poor oral hygiene. The implants, made of titanium, are less prone to decay. However, the gums and surrounding implants can get infected by bacteria. Plaque accumulation in the gum line allows bacteria to multiply, increasing the risk of infection. Smoking and drug abuse also increase the risk of implant infection.
- Involuntary habits. Habits like teeth grinding can cause wear and tear to the crown and affect the positioning of the teeth. This, in turn, will affect the implants.
What are the Signs That the Tooth Implant is Infected?
If your implant is infected, you can experience bad breath. This is caused by low-quality implants that emit a bad smell and taste. You can also have pus or bleeding around the area of the implant. You may notice gum bleeding after brushing, which is often an indication of gum disease.
Other symptoms that you may experience include pain, difficulty chewing, red, swollen gums, and loose implant. If you have these symptoms, accompanied by fever, visit a dental office in Whitby, ON, for assistance.
These implant infection symptoms are mild and can be reversed if caught early. However, if not treated on time, it could progress to a severe stage and lead to implant loss.
How Can Are the Implant Infection Treated?
The implant infection affects the gums and the tissues surrounding the implant. Since it is a bacterial infection, the dentist will opt for medication and nonsurgical treatment to remove the infection. If the treatment does not work, surgery is an option to remove the affected gum tissue. The dentist will clear the bacteria buildup around the implant.
If the supporting bone is affected, a bone graft may be done to stabilize the implant.
How Can You Prevent Implant Infection?
It is crucial to consult and work with a licensed dentist if you have a systemic disease or a previous bacterial infection like periodontitis before and after the implant procedure. Establish proper dental hygiene to protect the teeth and gums from bacteria attacks. Floss every day; about 1/3 of the plaques in the mouth are found between the teeth, and flossing will help you remove them.
Wear a nightguard if you suffer from grinding and clenching of the teeth. It shields the teeth from pressure and prevents wear and tear of the crown and surrounding teeth.
Ensure you visit a licensed specialist for the implant procedure. An experienced dentist will use the proper techniques to fix the implants, preventing future problems. Visit a dentist regularly—at least every six months, to get a comprehensive assessment and teeth cleaning.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit DSV Dental Brooklin Village for more information about dental implants and what you can do to prevent an infection.