Many experts consider dental implants the gold standard for replacing missing teeth because of their many advantages. Of all the options, they’re the only restorations that are directly embedded in your jaw for increased strength and stability. Furthermore, they typically have an incredibly high success rate of more than 95% up to 10 years after their initial placement.
However, if you have felt a sharp sensation or sensitivity in your prosthetic, it’s natural to wonder if something has gone wrong. Continue reading to learn more about 3 potential reasons for an aching implant and what you can do!
Cause #1: Surrounding Teeth
When you’re feeling sensitivity in your mouth, it can sometimes be hard to pinpoint the specific culprit. Your implant includes a titanium rod that fuses with your jawbone but doesn’t have nerves, so it’s natural to question whether it’s actually hurting. The nerves in your mouth are communicating to your brain that there’s a problem, but you might not be able to identify the precise point of pain.
If your implant was placed too close to the teeth you were born with, it can eventually cause uncomfortable crowding. As the pressure continues to build, your teeth can become sensitive, and your body might misinterpret this as an ache in your artificial tooth.
Cause #2: Gum Disease
Gum disease occurs when plaque and tartar form and bacteria penetrate the connective tissue and cause an infection. Unfortunately, this condition starts small so you might not realize you’ve developed an issue until it progresses. Untreated gum disease can worsen into a more serious periodontal problem that results in receding gums.
As these tender tissues pull away from your enamel to avoid illness, they expose more of your roots, which can cause sensitivity.
Cause #3: Tissue or Nerve Damage
If the bone tissue supporting your implant becomes infected by tooth decay or gum disease, it can lose mass and start to thin. This leaves your prosthetic and remaining teeth without the foundation needed to stay firmly planted. A loose or wiggling restoration could point to potential failure and should be addressed immediately. Sometimes, it can be bolstered with a splint until it integrates successfully with your jawbone. Otherwise, your dentist might need to remove and prepare you for a bone graft to bulk up your jaw before replacing it.
To prevent potential failure, follow your dentist’s post-op instructions in detail once your surgery is complete. Their directions are intended to help you heal as quickly as possible while avoiding potential adverse effects.
About the Practice
At Jacksonville Dental Excellence, you benefit from a dedicated husband-and-wife dental duo that conveniently offers a full array of services under one roof. Drs. Rose and Ryan Johnson strive to make your life easier by getting to know your unique dental history and concerns to anticipate your needs. Then, they combine a compassionate approach with state-of-the-art equipment to deliver accurate, long-lasting results. They have the training and technology to place your implants in the office, so you don’t need to seek an additional oral surgeon. If you’re ready to replace your missing teeth, request an appointment on the website or call (904) 895-4536.