Dental Implant Infection: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth. They are durable, natural-looking, and can last many years with proper care. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, and dental implant infection is one of them.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a small titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. After the implant is placed, a crown is attached to the top of the post, giving the appearance of a natural tooth.

What is a dental implant infection?

A dental implant infection is an infection that occurs in the tissues surrounding a dental implant. The infection can occur at any time after the implant surgery. Still, it is most common within the first few weeks to months after the surgery. Dental implant infection can lead to implant failure and other oral health problems if left untreated.

Symptoms

The symptoms of dental implant infection can vary from person to person, but some common symptoms include the following:

• Pain or discomfort around the implant site
• Swelling or inflammation around the implant site
• Redness or tenderness around the implant site
• Bleeding or discharge from the implant site
• Bad taste or odour in the mouth
• Fever or chills

Causes

Dental implant infection can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Immunodeficiency disorders
• Poorly placed implants
• Inadequate bone support
• Condition at the time of surgery
• Bacteria in the mouth

Diagnosis of dental implant infection

To diagnose infection, your dentist will perform a thorough oral exam and may order imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans. They may also take a sample of the fluid around the implant site for testing.

Treatment of dental implant infection

Treatment for dental infection typically involves antibiotics and implant removal if necessary. Your dentist may also recommend deep cleaning the implant site or other procedures to promote healing.

Prevention of dental implant infection

To prevent dental infection, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene, quit smoking, and manage any underlying health conditions. Choosing a qualified and experienced implant dentist and following their post-operative instructions is also important.

Complications of dental implant infection

Dental infection can lead to implant failure, bone loss, and other oral health problems if left untreated. In rare cases, it can even lead to serious systemic infections.

The Bottom Line

Dental implant infection is a serious issue that can lead to implant failure and other oral health problems. It is important to be aware of the symptoms and risk factors of implant infection and seek prompt treatment if you suspect you have an infection. Maintaining good oral hygiene, quitting smoking, and managing underlying health conditions can help prevent implant infection. If you are considering dental implant surgery, choose a qualified and experienced implant dentist and follow their post-operative instructions carefully.

FAQs

Can dental implant infection be prevented? 

Dental implant infection can be prevented by maintaining good oral hygiene, quitting smoking, and managing underlying health conditions.

What are the symptoms of dental implant infection? 

Symptoms of dental implant infection can include pain, swelling, redness, bleeding, bad taste or odour in the mouth, and fever or chills.

How is dental implant infection diagnosed? 

Dental implant infection is diagnosed through a thorough oral exam and imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans. A fluid sample around the implant site may also be taken for testing.

What is the treatment for dental implant infection?

Treatment for dental implant infection typically involves antibiotics and implant removal if necessary. Deep cleaning of the implant site or other procedures may also be recommended.

What are the complications of dental implant infection? 

Complications of dental implant infection can include implant failure, bone loss, other oral health problems, and serious systemic infections in rare cases.

How do I know if my dental implant is infected?

If you have a dental implant, some signs and symptoms may indicate an infection, including pain or discomfort around the implant site, swelling or inflammation, bleeding or discharge, a foul taste or odour in your mouth, and fever or chills. Suppose you are experiencing any of these symptoms. In that case, contacting your dentist as soon as possible is important to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

What happens if a dental implant gets infected?

If a dental implant becomes infected, it can lead to implant failure and other oral health problems. The infection can sometimes spread to other body parts and cause serious systemic diseases. Treatment for implant infection typically involves antibiotics and implant removal if necessary.