Why Does My Dental Implant Feel Sensitive?

Dental implants are a great option for replacing missing teeth. They are long-lasting, look natural, and are easy for you to care for. However, if you have noticed that your implant is feeling sensitive, you may be worried. After all, something could be wrong. There are numerous different reasons why you could be experiencing this. Continue reading to learn why this could be happening and what you should do about it.

Causes of Dental Implant Sensitivity?

You shouldn’t be able to feel dental implants, right? However, the area around the implant could become sensitive for a number of different reasons. Here are some of the most common:

• Infection: If you end up developing a gum infection, this can cause you to have issues with your dental implant. For instance, periodontal disease, which is an infection of the gum tissue, will eventually cause you to lose bone density. This means that your dental implant can become loose and even fall out!
• Crowding teeth: If your implant is too close to your natural teeth, it can cause uncomfortable crowding and sensitivity in the area.
• Impaction: If food or other particles become impacted between your dental implant and natural teeth, this can cause you to develop sensitivity in that area.
• Tissue or nerve damage: There is the possibility of your gum tissue and nerves to become damaged during the dental implant placement process. Tissue damage can heal, but nerve damage may be permanent. This is why it’s so important for you to choose a skilled, trusted implant dentist for your procedure.
• Allergic reaction: While they don’t happen very often, allergies to the titanium alloy that implants are made from are a possibility.

How to Reduce Dental Implant Sensitivity

Sensitivity and failure of your dental implant aren’t always in your control, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

• Eat plenty of calcium to support jawbone density
• See your dentist every six months for checkups
• Maintain an excellent oral hygiene routine
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash to prevent gum inflammation
• Ask your dentist about nightguards for teeth clenching and grinding
• Go easy on sugary foods and beverages
• Cut out tobacco and nicotine products

There are many different reasons why your implant may feel sensitive, so talk to your dentist. This way, you can get to the bottom of the issue and continue to show off your healthy, restored smile!

About the Author

Dr. Ahmed Saad is an experienced dentist who has been working in the dental field for over 15 years. He earned his dental doctorate from the USC School of Dentistry and is committed to continuing education to keep his knowledge and skills sharp. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule an appointment at his office in Vienna, visit his website or call (703) 705-7476.