What Are The Symptoms Of Bad Implants?

Redness and Swelling

Redness and swelling around an implant site could be one of the symptoms of bad implant. Some swelling is normal after the surgery, but excessive or prolonged redness and swelling weeks after the procedure can indicate an infection or other issues.

If you notice that the area around your implant is becoming increasingly red or swollen, it may suggest inflammation or that the body is rejecting the implant. Sometimes, infections occur when bacteria enters the implant site which leads to more severe problems if not addressed early. It’s important to monitor these symptoms and contact your dentist if they get worse or do not improve.

Implant Loosening

Implant loosening is one of the concerning symptoms of bad implants. This occurs when the implant becomes unstable within the jawbone, leading to movement or shifting of the implant. Several factors can contribute to implant loosening, including insufficient bone integration, infection, or excessive stress on the implant.

If you notice that your implant feels loose or is moving, it’s important to contact your dentist immediately. A loose implant can lead to further complications, such as pain and infection, and may even require removal.

Gum Recession

Gum recession is another concerning symptom of bad implant. It occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the implant pulls back, exposing more of the implant or the tooth root. Gum recession can lead to various issues, including increased sensitivity, an unsightly appearance, and a higher risk of infection.

There are several reasons why gum recession might occur around dental implants. These include:

1. Infection: Peri-implantitis, an infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the implant, can lead to inflammation and gum recession.
2. Improper Implant Placement: Improper implant puts undue pressure on the nearby gum tissue, leading to recession over time.
3. Poor Oral Hygiene: When you neglect proper oral care, bacteria thrive around the implant, contributing to gum disease and recession.

Difficulty Chewing or Speaking

Difficulty in chewing or speaking is a common symptom of bad implants. After a successful implant procedure, patients should be able to eat and talk comfortably. If you find it challenging to chew food or speak clearly, it may indicate that the implant is not functioning as it should.

Here are a few reasons why you might encounter these difficulties:

Improper Alignment:

If the dental implant is not correctly positioned, it can affect your bite. This misalignment can lead to discomfort when chewing and may make it difficult to articulate words clearly.

Implant Loosening:

As discussed earlier, if the implant becomes loose, it can shift during chewing or speaking, causing pain and hindering normal mouth movements.

Infection or Inflammation:

Infections around the implant site can cause swelling and discomfort, making it painful to chew or speak. This could also be a sign of peri-implantitis, which is inflammation of the tissue around the implant.

Infection and Pus

The presence of pus is a clear symptom that something may be wrong. If you notice any discharge, especially pus, around your implant site, it’s crucial to seek dental attention immediately.

Here are some key points regarding infection and pus as symptoms of a bad implant:

Signs of Infection:

An infection can manifest as redness, swelling, and warmth around the implant area. If you see pus, this is a definitive sign that bacteria are present and causing an inflammatory response.

Peri-implantitis:

This is a specific type of infection that affects the soft and hard tissues near the dental implant. It can lead to the loss of bone support and, if left untreated, may result in implant failure.

Impact on Healing:

An infection disrupts the healing process of the implant. It prevents proper osseointegration, where the implant fuses with the jawbone, which is important for the implant’s stability and function.

Jawbone Deterioration

Jawbone deterioration is a significant symptom of a bad implant. This condition occurs when the bone that supports the implant starts to weaken or shrink. Here’s what you should know about jawbone deterioration as a symptom of a bad implant:

Loss of Bone Density:

When a dental implant fails to integrate properly with the jawbone, it can lead to bone loss in the surrounding area. This deterioration can happen for various reasons, such as infection, implant movement, or the body’s rejection of the implant.

Changes in Bite:

As the jawbone deteriorates, it can change your bite alignment. You may notice that your teeth no longer fit together properly when you bite or chew, which can lead to further discomfort and issues with your dental health.

Visible Changes:

In some cases, jawbone deterioration may become visible, resulting in a sunken appearance in the face. This is particularly concerning as it affects not only oral health but also facial aesthetics.