Tender Teeth: 3 Reasons for Sensitive Dental Implants

Dental implants are often considered the ideal way to replace missing teeth because of their unique placement in your jawbone. Unlike alternatives like dentures or dental bridges, these restorations function as sturdy standalone structures that tend to be more resilient.

However, they’re not entirely invincible to harm. If your prosthetic feels sore or sensitive, it could point to a more serious underlying concern. Continue reading to learn 3 potential reasons for your discomfort so you know when to get help!

Cause #1: Gum Infection

Did you know that the number one leading cause of dental implant failure is a form of gum disease called peri-implantitis? Your mouth contains billions of bacteria, and if they penetrate the surgical site, they can cause a painful infection that can affect your jawbone. As the tissues begin to break down, your prosthetic is left without the firm foundation it needs to remain in place. If the titanium rod becomes loose, it can press against your jawbone and leave you feeling sore.

If your restoration wiggles or hurts, especially when biting down, you should contact your dentist to prevent it from failing.

Cause #2: Overcrowding

The placement of your prosthetic can make a big difference in how comfortable it feels once you’ve recovered. For example, if the titanium pole is placed too close to your remaining teeth, the added pressure it exerts can cause tenderness in your teeth, gums, and jaw. Furthermore, it might push your natural teeth out of alignment, which can wear down your enamel and increase your vulnerability to cavities and gum disease.

Your provider can perform a revision surgery to reposition your implant to avoid this type of ache.

Cause #3: Nerve Damage

Many patients are surprised to learn that the jawbone contains multiple nerves that provide sensation to your teeth, like the mandibular, lingual, and inferior alveolar nerves. If your restoration was placed too deeply in your jaw, the metallic rod can press against them and cause numbness or tingling. Some people even report feeling burning in the lips, gums, chin, and jawbone.

Depending on your circumstances, your dentist can help with medications like corticosteroids or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) to reduce symptoms. Otherwise, they may have to intervene surgically to remove the implant and repair the nerve.

If you’re unsure why your dental implant hurts or are worried that it’s showing signs of failure, contact your provider immediately to schedule an appointment. They’ll help identify the cause and suggest appropriate treatments as needed.

About the Practice

Patients at On Point Dentistry benefit from the expertise of a general dentist and a certified periodontist. Dr. Caballeros and Dr. Parra work together to provide a comprehensive array of services, including dental implants, to meet all your needs under one roof. They combine art and science to build lifelike restorations and use state-of-the-art equipment to deliver accurate, long-lasting results. If you’re concerned that your implant may be failing, you can request an appointment on the website or call (469) 476-4092.