Infection is considered to be the most common complication associated with a dental implant. The most common form of infection is peri-implantitis. This infection is actually a form of gum disease that has the capability to result in the loss of bone and the actual failure of the implant. An infection that directly impacts an implant is typically caused by bacteria.

The buildup of the bacteria may occur immediately following the surgical placement of the implant. According to information derived from a study conducted by the University of Gothenburg, approximately half of all patients that receive a dental implant may experience some degree of infection; however, this may be successfully avoided by optimal at-home dental hygiene.

The Causes of an Implant Infection

There are many risk factors associated with an infection linked to dental implants. By understanding the causes, you may be able to successfully avoid developing an issue. The following outlines the most common causes, as outlined by dental professionals:

1. Gum Disease – If you have gum disease – also referred to as “periodontal disease” – it indicates that there is an active infection in the tissues in your mouth that are responsible for holding the teeth in place. Most commonly the result of poor oral hygiene habits – such as brushing, flossing, and rinsing the mouth – it allows for the development of a sticky type of film composed of bacteria to accumulate on the teeth and the dental implant. This biofilm then hardens. Individuals with gum disease will often find that their gums are sore, that they bleed, and that it may become painful to chew. This is one of the most common causes of an infection of a dental implant.
2. Poor Oral Hygiene – Brushing, flossing, and rinsing the teeth, gums, and tongue aid in controlling the amount of potentially harmful bacteria that occurs within the mouth. If oral hygiene is not performed as necessary, it could lead to the development of harmful bacteria that has the capability of infecting a newly-placed dental implant.
3. Tobacco Usage – The next common cause of dental implant infections is the usage of products that contain tobacco. Smoking has been found to restrict the flow of blood to the gums and other soft tissues in the mouth. This detrimentally impacts the healing process once the dental implants are put into place. Additionally, the act of smoking has been found to result in a very dry mouth environment. It is in this type of environment that bacteria may rapidly spread.

The Signs That Indicate a Dental Implant is Infected

If you believe that you may have a dental implant infection, you should contact the dental professional that performed the implant surgery. The following outlines some common signs associated with infection:

1. Many individuals that develop an infection after implantation surgery will discover that that they have a bad taste in their mouth or that they have bad breath. Even brushing and flossing does not seem to eliminate the bad taste or bad breath when it is caused by an infection.
2. When an infection develops around a dental implant, it is common for the gums to become red, swollen, and extremely tender.
3. The area surrounding the implant area may start to become very painful. If the pain is caused by an infection, the body will start to act in a defensive manner and a fever will develop. The fever confirms that the body is attempting to fight off an infection.
4. If you are caring for the dental implant and start to discover any type of pus or bleeding seemingly stemming from the area, it is likely that the dental device is infected.
5. If the implant feels loose or it starts to take on a wobble, it is quite likely that it is infected.

We Can Help

If you are experiencing infections in the mouth and/or a potential dental implant infection, we here at Implant & Perio Center of Kansas can assist you. It is imperative that you seek assistance immediately for all forms of mouth infection due to the fact that it could result in bone loss and other serious complications.

To learn more about the issue that you are facing or to make an appointment with one of our specialists, contact us today by calling: 316-330-4050