Dental implants are known for their high success rate—over 90 to 95% in most cases—but that doesn't mean problems never happen. Even with how reliable implant-supported restorations are, complications like peri-implantitis and implant failure can still occur. If you're dealing with pain, swelling, or bleeding that isn't improving, you might be facing a tooth implant infection, and the longer you wait, the worse it can get.
In this blog, we'll break down what causes implant infections, how to spot the warning signs, and when it's time to call your dentist for emergency care.
What Causes Tooth Implant Infections?
Infections in dental implants are usually the result of several common (but preventable) factors that affect the health of your gums and bone. Here are the most common causes:
Poor Oral Hygiene
When plaque builds up around your implant, bacteria can easily slip under the gumline, causing inflammation. Without proper brushing and flossing, infection can develop quickly, even if the implant was placed perfectly.
Smoking and Tobacco Use
Smoking weakens your immune system and reduces blood flow to the gums. This makes it harder for your body to heal after surgery and more likely that bacteria will settle in and cause an infected implant.
Bone Loss or Poor Bone Quality
Dental implants need strong bone support to stay stable. If the bone around your implant is thin, damaged, or deteriorating (especially in patients with osteoporosis or untreated gum disease), the implant is more prone to movement and infection.
Excessive Biting Force
Grinding your teeth or biting down too hard can stress the implant and surrounding tissue. Over time, this pressure may create tiny gaps that allow bacteria to enter and lead to an infection in the implant tooth.
Gum Disease History
If you've had gum disease in the past, you're more at risk for dental implant infections. The bacteria that caused earlier damage can return and attack the soft and hard tissue around your implant.
Common Symptoms of a Dental Implant Infection
It's not always easy to tell when a dental implant infection is developing. The signs often resemble regular post-surgical symptoms until they persist. Look for the following:
Persistent Gum Swelling
Swollen gums around your implant that don't settle down after a few days could signal an infected dental implant. If the swelling feels warm, firm, or painful, it's time to call your dentist.
Bleeding While Brushing
While light bleeding is normal for a few days after surgery, continuous bleeding when brushing or flossing around the implant is a red flag. This can be a sign of inflammation or infection taking hold.
Throbbing or Sharp Pain
A well-placed implant shouldn't cause long-term harm. If you feel constant throbbing, deep aching, or sharp pain weeks or months after surgery, the cause may be infection or poor integration.
Pus or Discharge Present
Any pus, fluid, or strange taste near your implant could be a sign of bacterial buildup. This is one of the clearest symptoms of an infected implant and should never be ignored.
How Dental Implant Infections Turn Into Dental Emergencies
A dental implant infection can start small but escalate quickly. As bacteria break down tissue, the surrounding bone may begin to weaken, making the implant unstable. Once the implant loosens or the bone is damaged, the risk of total implant failure increases. That's why quick action is critical!
Smile4Me Dental Care: Your Solution to Treating Infected Implants Fast
At Smile4Me Dental Care, we've helped countless patients recover from dental implant infections and protect their long-term oral health. Led by Dr. Iosif Khaimov, our team provides personalized care for every stage of the infection, from diagnosis to restoration.
Our Emergency Dentist Services in Astoria
We understand that implant complications don't follow a 9-5 schedule. That's why we offer urgent dental care with same-day availability for serious implant concerns, even on Sundays. If you suspect you have an infected dental implant, we'll thoroughly examine your situation and provide you with relief quickly. So, if you're looking for a dentist in Astoria who takes implant infections seriously, Smile4Me Dental Care is your go-to clinic.
Conclusion: Don't Wait to Treat Infected Dental Implants
In conclusion, a dental implant infection is never something you should ignore. Whether it starts with mild discomfort or full-blown swelling and discharge, early treatment is the best way to save your implant and avoid long-term damage.
Think you might have an infection in an implant tooth? Book your appointment online or walk in to Smile4Me Dental Care for same-day help!
FAQs About Treating an Infection in Implant Tooth
Can dental implants get infected?
Yes, implants can become infected just like natural teeth, especially if bacteria reach the gum or bone surrounding them.
What should I do if I think I have bad dental implants?
Contact your dentist immediately for a thorough examination. Early diagnosis gives you the best chance to treat the problem before it worsens.
Why should I trust Smile4Me for dental implant emergencies?
We offer same-day emergency care, advanced technology, and expert guidance to treat infections quickly and help save your implant.
