Dental implants continue to gain popularity as an ideal way to replace missing teeth because of their many unique advantages. Unlike dentures and dental bridges, these restorations are inserted directly into your jawbone for added strength and stability.
However, that doesn’t mean they’re completely invincible. If you’re feeling dental sensitivity in or around your implant, it could point to a more serious underlying concern. Continue reading to learn why this sometimes happens and how your dentist can help!
What Are Dental Implants Made From?
Before diving into an explanation about the possible causes of your discomfort, it’s important to establish what dental implants are. These prosthetics include a rod that’s typically made from lightweight but resilient titanium, which is surgically embedded into your jaw. This functions like a root to stimulate new bone growth every time you bite down, but it doesn’t contain the same natural nerve endings.
Over time, the bone fuses with the pole in a process called osseointegration, and then your dentist provides a dental crown (or other appropriate restoration) to cap it. This tooth-shaped portion is made from resilient ceramic or resin that reflects light like enamel and can be customized to match your grin for seamless results.
Why Does My Dental Implant Feel Sensitive?
It’s normal to experience some aches and inflammation after your surgery, but this typically peaks in the first 3 to 5 days after your procedure then begins to fade. Persistent or worsening sensitivity or pain won’t fix itself, so you should contact your dentist for an appointment. They’ll examine your mouth to determine and address the cause.
Some potential reasons for these symptoms include:
- Gum disease. The leading cause of dental implant failure is a form of gum disease known as peri-implantitis. If bacteria in your mouth penetrate the surgical site, they can infect your connective tissues so that they retract, leaving your restoration without a firm enough foundation to remain in place.
- Infection. It’s also possible that excess dental cement from placing your dental crown permeates your gums, resulting in irritation and infection.
- Overcrowding. If your prosthetic was placed too close to neighboring teeth, it might shift them out of alignment, which can cause residual aches.
- Nerve damage. Your gums and jawbone are full of nerves that can send pain signals to your brain, and if the metal rod is pressed against one of them, you might experience sensitivity in that area.
Although your dental implant cannot feel pain, the bone and tissues surrounding it can. It’s best to contact your dentist sooner rather than later if you’re experiencing any ongoing discomfort!
About the Practice
At Michel Dental, you benefit from two dentists with 40+ years of combined experience. Dr. Michael Michel and Dr. Michael Weber work together to offer a full range of services conveniently under one roof, including dental implants. They combine a caring and informative approach with state-of-the-art equipment to identify issues and provide customized treatment plans to address them. They’re partnered with top-quality local oral surgeons and can provide a lifelike restoration to rebuild your smile’s appearance and functionality. You can request an appointment on the website or call (785) 273-0801.