It should come as no surprise that dental implants, like natural teeth, require maintenance. Dental implants are also susceptible to infection. The first step is usually when there is inflammation in the gums, which leads to bone loss and infection of the teeth (or teeth).
Peri-implantitis is the medical term for this infection. According to the years of expertise and study, dental implant infections are caused by the misconception that dental implants will remain and do not require regular dental care. Because some people disregard oral hygiene because they take their implant for granted.
Dental implants can become infected in the following situations:
- You're not drinking enough water. Staying hydrated is essential for washing away dirt and other substances found in your mouth;
- You're consuming a lot of sugar. Sugar is, predictably, bad for your teeth. You should limit your sugar consumption to safeguard the health of your teeth;
- You're avoiding going to the dentist. If you do not visit the dentist on a regular basis, you are more likely to get dental implant infections. Dental phobia, or fear of going to the dentist, is a real problem that keeps many individuals from getting the care they require;
- You don't brush your teeth on a daily basis. Brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day is recommended. Your teeth should be thriving and healthy with adequate care and diet. It is only when you fail to care for them that they become diseased.
Detecting Dental Implant Infections
Detecting dental implant infections is critical before the pain gets severe and the discomfort becomes terrible. We assist you identify four signs of a dental implant infection in the list below.
1. You've been to the doctor, and they discovered an infection
The first step in determining a dental implant infection is to consult a dentist. When you see a dentist, they may tell when your gums and teeth are inflamed. This can help prevent the spread of an infection.
This also implies that you must overcome your phobia of visiting the dentist. According to study, 36% of Americans suffer from dental anxiety, with 12% experiencing acute phobia. So, while you are not alone in your dread of going to the dentist, you will need to see one in order to avoid losing your implant.
2. Your teeth have an awful taste and odor
It is vital to note that having an infected dental implant may result in an unpleasant taste and odor. This is because illnesses can have an unpleasant odor that persists even after you brush and floss your teeth.
3. You have bleeding gums or pus oozing from your gums
If you clean your teeth and they begin to bleed, you may interpret this as "normal." But it may be more concerning if you begin to secrete pus. This is what happens when a dental implant becomes infected: there are blood and pus secretions.
4. Your teeth are loosening
Bone loss caused by dental inflammation might result in tooth loosening. Because you put so much time and money into the implant, it's critical that you seek aid before your teeth become loose.
A loosening tooth will frequently move and wiggle with a mild touch, increasing the likelihood that you may lose that tooth.
What Should You Do If You Suspect You Have A Dental Implant Infection?
It is critical to seek the advice of a dentist if you feel you have an infected dental implant infection. Waiting to see whether the infection would go away will not make it go away. Instead, as soon as you detect an illness, you should consult a dentist. Keep in mind that regular dental appointments can help you avoid getting a dental implant infection since the dentist can detect the infection before it spreads.