If you've had dental implants, then you need to know about these 5 common complications as well as expert advice on what to do about them.

Dental implants have revolutionized the world of restorative dentistry. Where once your only option was to live with a gap or deal with the hassle of removable dentures, you can now get a permanent replacement for missing teeth that looks and works just like the real thing.

But even though 90-100% of dental implants are successful, there are rare occasions in which complications arise. The best way to keep these complications from becoming serious is to be aware of dental implant infection signs and notify your dentist if something seems wrong.

If you're thinking about getting a dental implant or think yours could be infected, read on for all you need to know.

How Dental Implants Work and How to Know if Something Goes Wrong

Dental implants have two main components. The first is a metal fixture that your dentist implants into your jawbone. The second is a dental crown that attaches to the fixture, forming a permanent denture.

To implant the fixture into your jaw, your dentist will need to open your gums and expose the bone underneath. They'll then create an opening for the fixture and implant it into the bone.

Getting an implant is an invasive procedure, so some discomfort and bleeding are to be expected while it heals. Your dentist will tell you what to expect after the procedure before they operate. If you experience any symptoms that aren't on their list of normal side effects, you might be showing signs of infection.

Five Signs of Dental Implant Infection and Other Problems

Even though everyone's healing process will look a little different, there are some sure signs that something is wrong with your implant. Here are five to keep an eye out for.

1. Movement

It takes time for the bone in your jaw to grow around the implant and stabilize it. Any movements during this process can jeopardize bone growth and may require another procedure to fix.

Most of the time, movement comes from eating solid foods too soon after surgery. Whether or not this is the reason in your case, let your dentist know immediately if your implant seems loose.

2. Pain

Post-operative pain is a normal part of any surgery. You'll likely feel some soreness and sensitivity for a few weeks or months after your implant as the bone and gum tissue heals. Pain is a cause for concern when it suddenly gets worse, goes away and returns, or remains at a high intensity.

3. Swelling

It's normal for your gums and face to be swollen for the first few days after implant surgery. This swelling should go down on its own within a week or two, especially if you treat it with ice and anti-inflammatory medication. If the inflammation doesn't go down, gets worse, or comes back later, it's a sign of potential infection.

4. Bleeding or Discharge

Like pain and swelling, you can expect some bleeding and fluid discharge around the implant during the early healing stages. Bleeding that persists or discharge that's yellow/white and foul-smelling are indicators of an infection. In some rare cases, the infected discharge could also be a sign that you're developing a dental abscess that requires medical treatment.

5. Fever

If you develop a fever and/or other signs of illness like body aches and fatigue after your implant, contact your dentist and seek medical attention right away. This could be a sign that the infection has spread to other parts of your body. Most bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics, but early intervention is the key to a quick recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants Problems

By this point, you've learned what a normal dental implant procedure should look like and how to identify some of the possible problems. Next, let's take a look at some of the questions patients often ask about dental implant complications.

Why Do Dental Implants Get Infected?

Most cases of problems or infection after a dental implant can be avoided. Some of the culprits include:

a buildup of dangerous bacteria in the mouth
medical conditions that cause poor healing, like diabetes
a lack of bone for the implant to anchor to
poor surgical technique
the effects of certain osteoporosis and cancer medications
micromovements of the implant in the jaw
failing to follow aftercare instructions
rare metal allergies

Your dentist should screen you for all infection risk factors like medications, allergies, and medical conditions before approving you for an implant. If the risk is too great, they will work with you to find another solution, like a dental bridge, instead.

What Should I Do if I Notice Dental Implant Infection Signs Appear?

Any sign of infection or another problem with your implant means it's time to take action. It's better to be safe than sorry, so give your dentist a call even if you think something might be wrong. They'll be glad that you're paying attention to your health, and if the problem does warrant treatment, they'll be able to fix it before it gets more serious.

How Can I Avoid Complications from Dental Implants?

The number one thing you can do to avoid dental implants problems is to see a trustworthy, experienced dentist like those at Finger Lakes Family Dental for your procedure. Most potential issues can be avoided with thorough screenings and surgical expertise.

It's also important for you to follow your dentist's aftercare instructions to the letter, keeping up with your oral hygiene and being careful while the implant heals. When both you and your dentist take the utmost care before, during, and after the procedure, complications are very unlikely.

Contact Your Dentist Right Away if You Notice Problems with Your Dental Implants

If you notice any of these signs that your implant is in trouble, don't wait to contact your dentist. Catching and treating the problem early on is the best way to avoid any serious effects on your health.

Whether you need dental implants and want to avoid complications or you're worried that an existing implant could be infected, Dr. Marzo and Dr. Fuller are here to help. At Finger Lakes Family Dental, we're dedicated to providing top-notch dental care so you can rest assured that your procedure will heal correctly, the first time. Contact our office in Painted Post, NY to set up an appointment today.

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