Sensitivity in natural teeth is a common issue. It can arise due to a number of causes, and your dentist can offer solutions to make you more comfortable. But what if you experience sensitivity in one of your prosthetic teeth? That can be alarming! This blog post explains why sensitivity can occur near dental implants and what you should do to navigate the situation.
What Is Causing the Sensitivity?
It is important to note that dental implants do not have any nerves, so it is technically impossible for them to experience sensitivity; they have no way of communicating with your brain. Therefore, it is likely that the area around your implant is responsible for the discomfort.
Sometimes, sensitivity near an implant is a relatively minor issue. For example, you might have a small spot of decay in an adjacent tooth, a minor gum injury, or sinus inflammation that is irritating the roots of your upper teeth.
In other cases, sensitivity points to a more serious problem, such as:
- Nerve irritation: In rare cases, a dental implant is placed too close to a nerve, meaning it can cause ongoing irritation.
- Infection: Peri-implantitis occurs when bacteria attack the jawbone and gums around an implant. It can lead to pain and sensitivity.
What Should You Do?
Any new or worsening sensitivity is a good reason to visit your dentist. When you call to make your appointment, describe your situation in as much detail as possible. For example, you should describe the severity of your discomfort and whether you have any related symptoms, such as gum recession, pus, or swelling.
Based on the information you provide, your dental team can advise you on what to do. If they recommend an emergency appointment, do not hesitate to see them ASAP. If you have a cavity in a nearby tooth or a minor infection, treating such issues early on can prevent them from turning into a major issue.
When you visit the dentist, they will perform an examination and then recommend a treatment. If the issue is coming from an adjacent tooth, you might need a relatively simple treatment like a filling or crown. If you have an advanced infection around your implant, it might need to be removed. Later, after a healing period and any necessary additional care, you may be able to get a new one.
Sensitivity near a dental implant should be taken seriously! Talk to your dentist to learn how to handle the situation with minimal damage to your smile’s health and function.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Zac Young is a highly skilled implant dentist. In fact, he even spent time as a clinical mentor who guided his fellow dentists in implant placement techniques. If you have concerns about your prosthetic teeth or are just in the process of considering your tooth replacement options, Dr. Young and our Palos Heights team would love to welcome you in for a consultation. Contact Revival Dentistry at 708-448-4161.