How To Prevent An Infection After Dental Implants

By Author: Dr. Gaurav Sharma
Total Articles: 36
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Introduction

A life-changing experience for many people, dental implants can improve the impression of the smile and increase all-around comfort and function.

But Dental implant process is invasive and may require several surgeries.

A relatively common dental procedure, Dental implants go in without a hitch, mostly.

However rare complications are possible as it is with any procedure. Adequate post-implantation care is the key to preventing infection and ensuring that the procedure is successful.

One of the most common complications following surgery is Dental Plant infection and, in most cases, it is a minor problem that can be easily resolved.

Dr. Gaurav Sharma at Kirkland Premier Dentistry says, "Whether one is about to go in for a dental implant procedure or already has one done, it's always helpful to be informed"

Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about dental implant infections.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

Dental implants help to replace a missing tooth permanently. A small screw-like structure is first installed into the jaw bone by ...
... the dentist and it forms the root of the new tooth.

People who have had a severe bone loss in their jaw may need a bone graft beforehand.

This regrowth of the bone is stimulated by the implant, making the new tooth more stable.

On the healing of the tooth, the dentist attaches the top of the implant, giving the patient a permanent tooth that both looks and feels natural.

What Is a Dental Implant Infection?

When the area around the implant site gets inflamed, it's called a Dental Infection. There are two major types of Dental Infection:

Peri-implant mucositis: The less serious of the two infections, it is commonly caused by poor oral hygiene. A plaque biofilm is formed between the implant and prosthetic crown and there is an inflammation of the soft tissue around an implant, with no additional bone loss.

Peri-implantitis: Usually a result of untreated peri-implant mucositis, it is a more serious destructive inflammatory condition of the soft and hard tissues around dental implants, which affects a large area of the bone covering the artificial tooth root.

What Are the Most Common Dental Implant Infection Signs?

Every surgery takes some time to heal, leaving the area exposed and vulnerable to bacteria.

However the risk of infection after dental implant surgery is relatively low, and its treatment is quite easy if the patient acts swiftly and sees a dentist immediately on developing the warning signs.

Symptoms of infection may include the following:

Pain and Trouble in Chewing:

Some pain after any invasive dental procedure is natural but it should be manageable with a prescription or over-the-counter pain killer.

However, if the pain increases or spreads to the point where it interferes with talking and chewing, it may be a sign of an infection.

Fever, Redness, and Swelling:

Similarly to pain a little swelling around the surgery area after getting the implants is also normal.

However, it should not last for more than the first few days. Aggravated swelling and redness, particularly accompanied by fever, can be a sign of infection.

Constant Bad Taste in the Mouth:

The buildup of bad bacteria and debris is the main cause of dental implant infections.

As these bacteria settle in the gums and trickle into the mouth, it is usually accompanied by a persistent terrible bad taste in the mouth and in some cases a constant bad breath.

Bleeding or Leaking Pus:

The infection may also cause the leaking of blood and pus into the mouth. An infection can cause persistent bleeding which might increase after a few days.

Loose Implant:

As the dental implants are screwed directly onto the jawbone to keep them from coming loose, they should remain stable for the rest of their life.

An implant that is loose or wobbly is a sign that there is an issue with it and that another procedure may be needed to fix it.

What Are the Causes of the Infection Around Dental Implants?

The causes of dental implant infection usually include:

Poor oral hygiene
Smoking
An allergic reaction caused by the implant
Chronic health issues such as diabetes
A weak immune system
A bite that is misaligned can contribute to the growth of bacteria
Grinding or clenching of teeth.
Severe bone loss in the jaw

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