“Can a dental implant cause infection?”
I want to replace my missing tooth with an implant. Can a dental implant cause infection?
1 Answer
Yes, although dental implants are generally safe and have a high success rate, there is a small risk of infection, known as peri-implantitis. This infection occurs around the implant site and can lead to inflammation, bone loss, and implant failure if not addressed. At Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma, Dr. Jeremy Egan, DMD, MD, takes preventive measures and provides guidance to minimize the risk of infection, ensuring a successful implant experience.
Causes of Implant Infection (Peri-Implantitis)
Bacteria Build-Up
Poor oral hygiene can allow bacteria to accumulate around the implant, leading to infection. Bacteria can cause inflammation of the gum tissue and bone loss, similar to periodontal disease in natural teeth.
Smoking
Smoking impairs blood flow and slows healing, increasing the risk of infection. It also affects the body’s immune response, making it harder to fight off bacteria around the implant.
Underlying Health Conditions
Conditions like diabetes, especially if uncontrolled, can make it more challenging for the body to heal and fight infection. Dr. Egan will evaluate your medical history to determine if any health factors could impact implant success.
Improper Placement or Early Stress on the Implant
Implants need time to integrate fully with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. If an implant is placed incorrectly or subjected to excessive force too soon (e.g., from chewing hard foods), it may fail to integrate and become susceptible to infection.
Symptoms of Implant Infection
Red, swollen, or tender gums around the implant
Bleeding when brushing or touching the implant area
Pain or discomfort around the implant site
Pus or discharge from the area
Bad taste or odor in the mouth
Loosening of the implant
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to contact your oral surgeon promptly.
Preventing Implant Infection
Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is key to preventing infection. Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss gently around the implant. You may also benefit from using a water flosser to clean hard-to-reach areas.
Regular Check-Ups
Regular check-ups with Dr. Egan allow for early detection of any issues and provide professional cleaning to keep the implant site healthy.
Quit Smoking
If you smoke, consider quitting to reduce the risk of infection and support long-term implant success.
Follow Post-Operative Care Instructions
Dr. Egan will provide specific care instructions after implant surgery. Following these guidelines helps ensure proper healing and reduces the risk of infection.
Treating an Implant Infection
If an infection does occur, it can often be treated with a combination of professional cleaning, antibiotics, and, in some cases, minor surgical procedures to remove infected tissue. Dr. Egan will evaluate the infection and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
At Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma, Dr. Jeremy Egan’s expertise in dental implants and attention to preventive care greatly reduce the likelihood of infection. By following proper care practices and maintaining regular dental visits, you can enjoy a successful and long-lasting implant.
Causes of Implant Infection (Peri-Implantitis)
Bacteria Build-Up
Poor oral hygiene can allow bacteria to accumulate around the implant, leading to infection. Bacteria can cause inflammation of the gum tissue and bone loss, similar to periodontal disease in natural teeth.
Smoking
Smoking impairs blood flow and slows healing, increasing the risk of infection. It also affects the body’s immune response, making it harder to fight off bacteria around the implant.
Underlying Health Conditions
Conditions like diabetes, especially if uncontrolled, can make it more challenging for the body to heal and fight infection. Dr. Egan will evaluate your medical history to determine if any health factors could impact implant success.
Improper Placement or Early Stress on the Implant
Implants need time to integrate fully with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. If an implant is placed incorrectly or subjected to excessive force too soon (e.g., from chewing hard foods), it may fail to integrate and become susceptible to infection.
Symptoms of Implant Infection
Red, swollen, or tender gums around the implant
Bleeding when brushing or touching the implant area
Pain or discomfort around the implant site
Pus or discharge from the area
Bad taste or odor in the mouth
Loosening of the implant
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to contact your oral surgeon promptly.
Preventing Implant Infection
Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is key to preventing infection. Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss gently around the implant. You may also benefit from using a water flosser to clean hard-to-reach areas.
Regular Check-Ups
Regular check-ups with Dr. Egan allow for early detection of any issues and provide professional cleaning to keep the implant site healthy.
Quit Smoking
If you smoke, consider quitting to reduce the risk of infection and support long-term implant success.
Follow Post-Operative Care Instructions
Dr. Egan will provide specific care instructions after implant surgery. Following these guidelines helps ensure proper healing and reduces the risk of infection.
Treating an Implant Infection
If an infection does occur, it can often be treated with a combination of professional cleaning, antibiotics, and, in some cases, minor surgical procedures to remove infected tissue. Dr. Egan will evaluate the infection and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
At Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma, Dr. Jeremy Egan’s expertise in dental implants and attention to preventive care greatly reduce the likelihood of infection. By following proper care practices and maintaining regular dental visits, you can enjoy a successful and long-lasting implant.
