October 16, 2024
Dental implants are an easy and effective way to replace missing or decayed teeth and gain your beautiful smile back. However, since an implant involves two parts- the crown and the screw-like structure often made from titanium, most people think that implants cannot be infected.
However, this is not true. Dental implant infection, although rare, are a reality. Known as peri-implantitis, infections in implants occur due to several factors such as lack of proper oral hygiene, having a weak immune system, smoking, etc, and may have serious consequences if not treated on time.
This article will equip you with ways to detect signs of dental implant infection early and take appropriate action timely.
What Causes Dental Implant Infection?
Just like your natural teeth, your dental implants are also surrounded by the same natural environment including bacteria and saliva and are exposed to the same risks.
Let’s take a look at some of the most common causes of infection on implants:
- Poor oral hygiene habits such as missing out on regular brushing and flossing. This leads to bacteria buildup and plaque formation leading to infections.
- A weak immune system is often the cause of implant infections. When your body cannot fight bacterial infections, your implants and teeth may be affected.
- Smoking is another factor that leads to infection in implants. It constricts the flow of blood to your gums reducing the delivery of nutrients and removal of wastes leading to the formation of bacteria.
- Existing conditions such as bruxism, crossbite, overbite, or open bite may also lead to bacterial buildup and plaque formation.
- A dental implant infection may also be caused due to improper placement of the implant. For instance, a gap between the implant and the jaw bone may offer a crevice for the infection-causing bacteria to grow.
What are Some Common Signs of a Dental Implant Infection?
To detect and treat an implant infection, it is important to be aware of its signs and symptoms.
- Persistent bad breath despite maintaining a proper oral hygiene routine.
- Redness or swelling around the gums — a sure sign of inflammation and infection.
- Constant pain or sensitivity around the location of the implant.
- Bleeding in the gum tissue or discharge of pus.
- Inability to chew without pain.
- Shifting or loose implant.
- Unexplained and recurrent fever may also indicate infected implants.
Can You Prevent Dental Implant Infection?
Fortunately, it is easy to prevent the risk of dental implant infection by incorporating some simple preventive steps into your daily routine such
- Follow a regular and optimal oral hygiene routine, which includes brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash regularly.
- Adhere to the post-operative care instructions that your dentist has designed especially for you.
- Regulate your diet and avoid excessive sugary and sticky foods and drinks.
- Stay hydrated to allow bacteria to flush out of your mouth.
- Avoid smoking to ensure that your gums get adequate nutrients through uninterrupted blood circulation.
- Visit your dentist at least twice a year to get your implants checked and refitted if necessary.
How are Dental Implant Infections Treated?
In case your dental implants have become infected even after following these preventive steps, you needn’t worry. Once your dentist establishes the existence of an infection through a thorough examination including X-rays, they can assess the severity of it.
Depending on the severity of the infection, there are several ways in which your implant infection will be treated.
Mild Infection
If the infection is just beginning to set in, your dentist will clean the debris around it using specialised tools. They may also use laser therapy to clean the implant location.
The most common line of treatment is a course of antibiotics. Depending on how deep-seated the infection is, you may be advised antibiotics either orally or intravenously.
Severe Infection
If the infection has set in deep, you may require a surgical treatment. This may involve the removal of the implant completely and treating the area with antibiotics.Once the infection heals, you will be given a new implant.
Conclusion
With a bit of care, dental implant infection are easily preventable. Still, if your implant gets infected, early diagnosis is the key to its treatment.
If you suspect you have any of the signs or symptoms of infection, contact us today today to let us evaluate your condition and treat it before it becomes an emergency.
Dr. Malavi Sivakanesan (292322)
Dr. Malavi Sivakanesan is the principal dentist and co-founder at Complete Smiles in Harrow, Greater London. She is responsible for establishing the Complete Smiles brand throughout the United Kingdom and Europe and has 5 successful practices under her strong leadership.