What’s Making Your Dental Implant Sensitive?

Dental implants are the gold standard for missing teeth. They are designed to feel entirely natural, but you can’t get things like cavities with them. That said, your full smile might’ve started to feel sensitive, and you might be worried about why. After all, this tooth replacement is made of titanium, so what’s the underlying culprit? Here’s what you should know about this situation and why you should call your dentist.

Why Is My Dental Implant Sensitive?

As mentioned above, dental implants can’t develop sensitivity like a natural tooth, but a few possible reasons can still cause it. Here are a few of the most common ones:

• Recent Placement & Healing: If you had your implant inserted into your jawbone not too long ago, then you may have tenderness for several weeks. It should go away on its own as you heal.
• Improper Bite Alignment: In some cases, your bite might not be correctly aligned. Your implant can receive extra pressure when chewing, leading to discomfort. Thankfully, your dentist can adjust this relatively easily.
• Loose Restoration or Abutment: Implants are made from several parts. The portion in your jawbone is the post, but the abutment and restoration above it can become loose over time. This can lead to irritation and sensitivity. This can be a quick fix as well.
• Gum Irritation or Infection: If you have had your implants for a while and this complication occurs, then it may be a more serious problem. Peri-implantitis is an infection that occurs in the surrounding gums and bone. This condition can lead to failure, so if you have tenderness, swelling, and bleeding, then it may be worth calling your dentist.

What Should I Do If My Implant Is Sensitive?

Once you are fully healed after your dental implant placement, it should feel natural, so if you develop any sensitivity, loop in your provider. It’s better to be safe than sorry with your smile. By having them take a look, you can ensure your restored grin stays in great shape for decades to come.

About the Author

Dr. David Rosenfeld earned his dental degree from the Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery in New York City. He has since undergone advanced training in dental implants and implant prosthetics. Dr. Rosenfeld partners with local experts, ensuring you stay in the best care possible throughout the process. If your tooth replacement has become sensitive, schedule an appointment or call his office at 908-668-7838.