Dental implants are a durable solution for missing teeth, offering both functional and cosmetic benefits. However, like any procedure, they carry risks, with infection sometimes being a concern that can compromise their success and oral health if untreated.
Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments for dental implant infections is essential to protecting your investment and maintaining a healthy smile.
In this blog, we’ll explore why dental implants can become infected, how to recognize the signs, and the most effective ways to manage and prevent these issues.
Common Reasons for Dental Implant Infections
Dental implants, like natural teeth, can become infected due to bacteria that form plaque, which affects the gums and bones. Plaque can accumulate between the titanium implant and the crown, spreading to the surrounding gums.
Several factors increase the risk of dental implant infections:
- Poor Dental Hygiene: Failing to maintain a clean mouth allows bacteria to thrive and build up.
- Smoking: Smoking reduces blood flow to the gums, limiting nutrients and waste removal. It also introduces more bacteria, raising the risk of infection.
- Weakened Immune System: A weak immune system makes it harder for the body to fight bacteria, increasing susceptibility to infections.
- Jaw and Gum Conditions: Issues like osteoporosis and gum disease can cause bone loss, making infections more likely.
- Diabetes: Diabetes affects metabolism and weakens the immune system, increasing the likelihood of infections.
- Allergies: Allergic reactions to the implant materials can contribute to infections.
- Certain Medications: Drugs like bisphosphonates for cancer treatment can heighten the risk of infection.
- Misaligned Bite and Habits: Conditions like crossbites can lead to plaque buildup, creating an environment for infection. Teeth grinding may also weaken the implant by forcing additional movement on the implant, creating pockets where bacteria can grow.
How do I know if a dental implant is infected?
A dental implant infection is a serious issue that can lead to implant failure and other health complications. Here are the key signs to watch for:
- Persistent Pain and Discomfort: Ongoing pain that doesn’t improve with medication may indicate an infection. This is often accompanied by swelling and redness.
- Bad Breath: Persistent bad breath, even after brushing and flossing, could signal an infected implant.
- Swelling: Swelling around the implant site is a common symptom, often paired with redness and tenderness.
- Bleeding From Surrounding Tissue: Bleeding gums near the implant, especially during brushing or flossing, may suggest infection.
- Loose Implant: A loose implant can be a sign of infection. Contact your dentist immediately if this occurs.
- Fever: A fever after dental implant surgery may indicate your body is fighting an infection.
- Throbbing in the Ear: Pain or throbbing in the ear can signal infection, as the ear nerves are connected to those in the teeth and gums.
- Red or Purple Gum Colour: Discolouration of the gums near the implant, such as redness or a purple hue, is a potential sign of inflammation or infection.
Treatment Options for Dental Implant Infections
Your dentist will recommend treatments based on the severity and cause of the infection. Common options include:
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are often the first line of defence against mild to moderate dental implant infections. They target bacterial infections around the implant, reducing inflammation and pain.
Dentists or oral surgeons typically prescribe antibiotics tailored to the bacteria involved. While antibiotics can manage surface-level infections, they may not address deeper issues, especially if the infection has reached the bone or soft tissue near the implant.
Professional Cleaning
Professional cleaning is crucial for treating infections caused by plaque and tartar buildup. Dentists use ultrasonic devices or carbon fibre tools to clean shallow mucosal pockets around the implant.
For deeper pockets, gentle scaling tools or mechanical flossing can effectively clean and disinfect the area, reducing bacteria and preventing further complications.
Surgery
Surgery may be necessary if the infection is severe. The procedure involves making small incisions to access and clean the infected area thoroughly. Antiseptics are applied as part of the process to eliminate bacteria and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is a modern, minimally invasive option for treating infected implants. Dental lasers precisely target and remove infected tissue while preserving healthy tissue.
This method promotes faster healing by stimulating cell growth and reducing inflammation. It is an excellent alternative to traditional surgery, often minimizing the need for additional medications or procedures.
Implant Removal
In cases of severe infection causing significant bone loss or damage, the implant may need to be removed. After removal, a bone graft can restore the area, allowing for the placement of a new dental implant in the future.
How to prevent a dental implant infection
Preventing dental implant infections is essential for the long-term success of your implant and your overall oral health. Here are effective strategies to minimize your risk:
Following All Post-Operative Care Instructions
Always adhere to your dentist’s aftercare instructions. Many infections arise when steps in post-surgery care are skipped or neglected. These instructions often include dietary changes, proper cleaning of the surgical area, and pain management. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is crucial for keeping infections at bay. Brush your teeth twice daily using a soft toothbrush to remove plaque around the implant.
Floss daily with tools designed for implants, such as interdental brushes or water flossers, to clean hard-to-reach areas. Adding an antibacterial mouthwash to your routine can further reduce bacteria and protect the implant site.
It is often a myth that implants require less maintenance, when in fact, they require more diligent oral hygiene
Avoiding Smoking and Other Habits That Slow Healing
Smoking impairs blood flow to the gums, delaying healing and increasing the risk of infection. Avoid smoking, chewing tobacco, and excessive alcohol consumption to improve your implant’s success rate.
If quitting smoking feels challenging, consider seeking support from a doctor or program to lower your risks.
Food and Hydration
After a dental implant procedure, your mouth may feel sore and sensitive. Stick to a soft-food diet and avoid foods that are too hot to prevent discomfort.
Prioritize nutritious meals and drink plenty of water to support proper healing. Your dentist may provide specific dietary recommendations tailored to your recovery.
Conclusion
Dental implants are an excellent way to restore your smile and improve oral health. However, like any medical procedure, they come with potential risks, including infection. Understanding the causes of infection, recognizing the symptoms, and knowing the treatment options can help you respond quickly if problems arise.
You can minimize the risk of infection and ensure the longevity of your implant by maintaining good oral hygiene, visiting your dentist regularly, and following all post-operative care instructions. If you notice any signs of infection or have concerns about your dental implants, consult a dental professional promptly.
At Enhance Dental Centre, we offer comprehensive care for dental implants, from placement to maintenance and treating complications. Book a consultation with us today to safeguard your oral health and enjoy a lasting, beautiful smile.
<p>The post Can Dental Implants Get Infected? Causes + Treatments first appeared on Enhance Dental CA.</p>