A dental implant consists of a titanium post, an abutment piece, and a lifelike dental restoration, and none of these parts can send sensory signals to the brain. For this reason, it may be quite strange to find that your implant seems to be sensitive to changes in pressure or temperature. Here’s a brief guide to why this can happen as well as how to tell if you should schedule an appointment with your implant dentist.
Why Does My Dental Implant Seem Sensitive?
If the tissue surrounding a dental implant becomes stressed by injury, infection, or fatigue, the appliance may seem like it stings or feels sore in response to being touched or exposed to hot or cold substances. The human nervous system is not precise enough to locate exactly where the discomfort is coming from in cases like these, which can make it seem like the appliance itself hurts when the problem is actually in the neighboring teeth or gum tissue. In some cases, this issue can be resolved by a session of thorough brushing and flossing.
What Can Make My Dental Implant Seem Sensitive?
While it may sound logical to assume that sensitivity means your dental implant is in trouble, this is not always true. It may be that an adjacent tooth or some nearby gum tissue has sustained stress or damage, and the issue may fade quickly after it appears in minor cases. However, contact your dentist if your discomfort seems to be getting worse after a day or if you have visible dental damage. If you show signs of gum disease such as red or bleeding gums or if the implant moves when you touch it, professional dental care may be necessary to prevent the appliance from failing.
How Can My Dentist Address My Sensitivity?
If your sensitivity is caused by tooth decay or dental damage, your dentist may address it with a filling, a dental crown, or a root canal. In cases of gum disease, they will use periodontal therapy methods to eliminate the infection and restore the health of the gums. If the dental implant itself is loose, they will recommend an appropriate treatment to restore its strength or, if it cannot be saved, replacement.
Dental implants represent a significant investment, and discussing any issues they have with your dentist is a great way to keep them in excellent shape. By paying attention to your oral sensitivity and getting care when you need it, you can help your implants last for decades or even a lifetime.
About the Practice
Patriot Dental provides outstanding oral health services to the Pensacola community. Led by Drs. Keith Lisonbee and Dan Henry, the staff ensures that each patient receives exemplary care, sincere compassion, and remarkable customer service. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as implant services. If you are concerned about the health of your dental implant, dial (850) 477-1120. For non-urgent inquiries, contact the staff online.