The success rate of dental implant surgery is extremely high, however, just like with anything, there is always a risk of something happening. However, this is usually because of reasons other than the fault of the implant.
Just like with your regular teeth, if you don’t pay attention to your oral health, you run the risk of getting an infection. This includes neglecting your at-home dental care, as well as your regular cleanings and checkups at your dental office.
When you get an infection around your dental implant, this is a form of gum disease known as peri-implantitis. Your dentist will be able to diagnose this very easily through a thorough examination. They will want to stop the progression of the infection to be able to salvage the dental implant.
What are the possible causes of this type of gum disease, other than poor oral hygiene?
- Smoking
- Weak immune system
- Diabetes
- Teeth grinding
- Allergic reaction to the dental implant
What happens if I get an infection and it doesn’t get treated?
If the infection is left untreated, you will have to deal with progressive bone loss. The infection can also lead to a failed implant.
What are the signs of an infected dental implant?
- Inflamed gums – red, puffy, and bleeding around the dental implant
- Pus
- The implant becomes loose
- Unwelcome taste in your mouth
- Bad breath
- Throbbing
- Pain and discomfort
- Dull ache
- Difficult to chew your food
- Fever
It is incredibly important to have these types of infections treated as soon as possible. If left ignored, the gum disease can become very aggressive. Infected implants even have the ability to lead to systemic illness, meaning that they can even damage to your heart and other organs. Never underestimate the power that an infection can have on your whole body and overall health. Bacteria can spread like wildfire.
Call your dentist or oral surgeon immediately if you suspect that something is wrong. You can never be too cautious when it comes to your health. And don’t just assume it will get better or go away, because realistically, it will just get worse.
Looking for a dental implant surgeon in the Surrey, BC area? Look no further than New England Oral & Cosmetic Facial Surgery. Call us today at: 604-507-0514.
