Dental implants are the gold standard of teeth replacement options and are successful over 95% of the time. However, complications can arise. Some are short-term problems that can be addressed without removing the implants. Other issues may lead to implant failure that requires having the implants removed. If you experience any problem with a dental implant, it’s crucial to notify our office immediately. The sooner we address the issue, the more likely we will be able to save your implants so you can continue to enjoy a healthy smile.

Infection

Infection at the implant site is known as peri-implantitis, a severe gum infection caused by bacterial infection around the implant. Peri-implantitis causes inflammation, redness, and pain in the gum tissue. Over time, the implants loosen, gum pockets form, and gums bleed.

Treatment for mild infections includes professional cleaning, antibiotics, and improved oral care at home. If the infection is severe, we may also have to decontaminate the implant’s surface and use guided tissue regeneration to encourage reattachment of the jawbone to the implant. This is a minor surgical procedure done in our office.

Nerve or Tissue Damage

Nerve or tissue damage may be caused by infection, surgical trauma when implants are placed, or implant misplacement. The result may be a lack of sensation, pain, burning, or tingling in the lips, tongue, or cheek around the implant site. For many patients, nerve damage is temporary and fades over several weeks or months. If we believe your nerve or tissue damage is temporary, we will monitor it closely to track its progress.

If nerve or tissue damage persists, there are several treatment options available, including:

• Medications to relieve pain and reduce inflammation may be prescribed.
• If motor function is damaged, we may recommend physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve coordination.
• Surgical intervention is reserved for the most severe cases of nerve damage. Nerve repair or grafting procedures can reconnect or replace permanently damaged nerves.
• Dental implant removal may be the only option when all other avenues have failed.

Sinus Problems

Patients with upper jaw dental implants may develop sinus issues, including sinusitis, if the implant penetrates the sinus floor during placement or if there isn’t enough bone between the sinus opening and the implant. Several sinus symptoms may be caused by dental implants, including:

• Chronic nasal congestion.
• Discomfort or pressure in the sinuses.
• Sinus headaches.
• Postnasal drip.
• Symptoms of a recurring sinus infection, such as facial pain, tenderness, and yellowish nasal discharge.

If your sinus problems may be connected to dental implants, we will perform a detailed exam and take X-rays or a CT scan of your sinuses to assess your condition. If the discomfort and infection are mild, over-the-counter medication or prescription antibiotics may be all that is needed.

Sinus lift surgery is performed if an implant has fully penetrated the sinus floor or there isn’t enough bone to hold the implant in place without affecting the sinus opening. Implant removal and repositioning are also an option in severe cases. In this situation, the implant has to be temporarily removed and the infection controlled with antibiotics before it is replaced.

Allergic Reactions

Although rare, some individuals may have an allergic reaction to titanium, the material most commonly used in fabricating dental implants. An allergic reaction can cause pain, inflammation, a rash, and itching around the implant site. A patient may break out in hives or experience breathing difficulties in severe allergic reactions. If you have a severe reaction, seek emergency medical care immediately.

If an allergy is suspected, we will perform tests to confirm the diagnosis. Once we’ve received confirmation, we remove the implants and continue treating the allergy symptoms. Antihistamines and corticosteroids may be used to alleviate your discomfort. If you are still interested in getting implants, we can explore other options, such as zirconia implants, which do not contain any metal.

Contact Our Office If You Have Dental Implant Problems

Problems with dental implants are rare but should always be addressed as soon as possible to minimize your comfort and maximize our chances of saving the implants and avoiding having to remove them. If your implants are bothering you or you have questions, be sure to contact us at Alaska Oral Surgery Group Office Phone Number 907-278-5678.