Dental implants have become the go-to means of tooth replacement for dentists for a reason: their complete restoration from the root to the crown offers the most authentic experience you can have in place of your real teeth. But that doesn’t mean you should feel sensitivity in your implants, right? After all, they’re not natural teeth. In this post, you’ll find discussion about why sensitivity is not always related to your implant, and what to do in the rare instance that it is.
Why Your Dental Implant May Not Be the Culprit
Figuring out exactly where the unpleasantness of tooth sensitivity is coming from is extremely difficult. You may be confused because you know that an implant doesn’t have nerve endings, so why would it be creating this sensation?
The actual problem could be stemming from dental issues with your gum or a nearby tooth. While the brain is highly attuned to feelings of pain, it’s not always the best at pinpointing where it’s coming from, especially in the mouth.
It Could Be Your Gums, Not Your Implant
The discomfort you feel may be a result of an infection in your gums known as periodontal (gum) disease, a bacterial contamination of the tissues surrounding your teeth. Periodontal disease is often caused by poor oral hygiene that leads to plaque buildup, which can harden into tartar. With this condition, your gums begin to recede from your teeth, exposing the root surfaces and leaving them sensitive to things like hot and cold foods and drinks. The feeling can spread through different areas, which may lead you to believe your implants are experiencing sensitivity.
In its early stages, gum disease is known as gingivitis and can still be reversed. A professional cleaning from a dentist, coupled with rigorous at-home hygiene, can return your gums to a strong, healthy state. It’s important that you brush twice a day for two minutes and floss once a day; that includes your implants!
When Neighboring Teeth Are the Cause
Underlying issues with the surrounding teeth may lead you to think you’re experiencing sensitivity in your implant. A cavity, for example, in a tooth near the implant may be exposing the nerves inside to things that are causing discomfort, like temperature changes, acidic foods, or brushing. Also, chips or cracks in adjacent teeth can expose the layer beneath the enamel called dentin to external stimuli, leading to those intense little zaps of unpleasantness when you, say, have a cup of hot coffee in the morning.
Sensitivity can also be caused by overcrowded teeth. Sometimes, a dental implant is placed too close to your other natural teeth and can cause uncomfortable crowding. As the pressure from the implant grows, your other teeth can become touchier, leading you to believe that the implant itself is sensitive.
A Failing Implant May Cause Sensitivity
Dental implants have a very high success rate, with about 95 percent of surgeries having a favorable outcome. Unfortunately, there is a very small percentage of procedures that don’t work out, whether it’s because of failed fusion with the jawbone, infection, or other issues. If your implant isn’t successful, it can lead to sensitivity at the implant site. More than likely, it is the jawbone or gums that are causing discomfort.
If you suspect that your dental implant is not taking, it’s best to see your dentist as soon as possible. They can examine the site and determine the best course of action moving forward.
While your implant might not be the problem, sensitivity shouldn’t be ignored. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to get at the root of the problem.
About the Author
Dr. Tuan Nguyen is a graduate of the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry and a member of the American Dental Association and Texas Dental Association. Dr. Nguyen and our team at Casper Family Dentistry of Dallas are ready to see to all your dental implant needs. We are in-network with most major PPO insurance plans, offer convenient weekend and evening hours, and can accommodate Spanish-speaking patients. To schedule your appointment, call us at (469) 333-2733 or visit us online.