Millions of people are afflicted by dental sensitivity. It usually occurs when natural enamel becomes thin or suffers damage, allowing outside stimuli to irritate the nerves inside the teeth. But what if your dental implant feels sensitive? Since it has no nerves or enamel, you may be alarmed if it starts to cause you discomfort. Why can this issue occur, and what steps should you take to address it? This blog post provides some helpful information.
Where Is the Sensitivity Coming From?
The human body is a complex network of tissues, so it is not always easy to identify the exact origin point of pain, discomfort, and sensitivity. You might feel like your dental implant is sensitive. However, that is technically impossible because implants are inanimate objects! It is more likely that the sensitivity is emanating from the tissues near your implant, such as your jawbone, gums, or an adjacent natural tooth.
Possible Causes of Sensitivity Near a Dental Implant
There are a few possible explanations for sensitivity near a dental implant:
- Infection. Bacteria can invade the gums or jawbone near an implant, causing inflammation, pain, and sensitivity.
- Cavities or dental damage. Decay or damage to a tooth next to the implant can be mistaken for implant pain.
- Impaction. Food stuck between an implant and a nearby tooth can be uncomfortable.
- Nerve damage. In very rare cases, incorrect implant placement in the jawbone may cause nerve damage, leading to pain and sensitivity.
What Should You Do?
New or worsening dental sensitivity is always a good reason to talk to your dentist. It is especially important to seek care if the problem is near one of your implants; it could be a sign that the implant is failing! The earlier you receive professional attention, the more likely it is that the issue can be addressed without invasive or complex procedures.
When you attend your appointment, your care team will perform a thorough visual examination, take some X-rays, and ask about your symptoms. Then, they can advise you on your next steps. You might need something simple, such as a small filling or a course of antibiotics. However, there is also the possibility that the implant is failing and will need to be removed. Later, after a recovery period, you may be able to get a new one to replace it.
Sensitivity near a dental implant can be a big deal! Talk to your dentist about this symptom so it can be addressed ASAP.
Meet the Practice
Dr. David Thomas loves to serve the Burien community as a “friendly neighborhood dentist.” He offers a range of treatments, and he works with local specialists to provide comprehensive dental implant care. If you are concerned about the health of one of your prosthetic teeth, he and our team are ready to consult with you. Contact Seahurst Park Dentistry at 206-244-4622.
