Warning Signs of an Infected Dental Implant

Dental implant complications are very rare. But that doesn’t mean they can’t occur. The most likely culprit to implant failure is infection, which is referred to as peri-implantitis. If you’ve made it through the initial recovery period without an infection, that doesn’t mean you are out of the woods. Implant infection is caused by bacteria, which can develop weeks or years after your dental implant procedure. Peri-implantitis is a form of gum disease, so neglecting treatment can jeopardize a lot more than just your dental implant investment.

Detecting an infection within your dental implant at the earliest possible stage is important, as it could mean more conservative treatment and the salvation of the implant itself. Be mindful of the following implant infection warning signs:

• Bad taste/bad breath
• Pus or bleeding in the implant area
• Pain or tenderness at the implant site
• Difficulty chewing
• Red or swollen gums
• Loose implant

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, please call Dr. Wayne Suway as soon as possible. All types of dental infections need to be promptly treated, and infected dental implants can lead to serious oral damage if not addressed properly. Dr. Suway will carefully evaluate your implant to determine a treatment plan for eradicating the infection. If an implant replacement is suggested, it is for the protection of your dental and overall health. We want your dental implants to be a positive experience in every way. Therefore, you can count on us to thoroughly explain ways to care for your implants and keep them free of bacteria and harm going forward.