March 26, 2025
Dental sensitivity is a common problem; many people feel sharp discomfort when they bite into hot or cold foods. New or worsening sensitivity is always a cause for concern, but it may be especially alarming if you experience sensitivity or discomfort near your dental implant — after all, it is not a living tooth! What can cause this problem, and what steps should you take to address it? This blog post explains.
Understanding Sensitivity: Where Is It Coming From?
Unlike natural teeth, dental implants do not contain nerves or blood vessels. This means the implant itself cannot actually feel pain or sensitivity. When you notice discomfort in your dental implant, then, it is most likely originating from the tissues that surround it, rather than the implant itself.
For example, it might come from your gums, jawbone, or even adjacent natural teeth. Your body’s network of tissues continuously sends sensory information, and at times it may be difficult to pinpoint the exact source of the discomfort.
Common Causes of Sensitivity Near Dental Implants
There are several potential reasons why you might experience sensitivity around a dental implant:
- Infection: Bacterial buildup can lead to infection in the gum or bone tissue around the implant, resulting in inflammation and sensitivity.
- Dental Damage: Issues with neighboring teeth, such as cavities, cracks, or chips, might be mistaken for implant discomfort.
- Impaction: Food particles trapped between the implant and a natural tooth can put pressure on surrounding tissues, triggering pain or sensitivity.
- Nerve Damage: In rare instances, improper implant placement may affect nearby nerves, causing unusual sensations or discomfort.
What You Should Do if You Experience Sensitivity
If you notice new or worsening sensitivity near your dental implant, it is important to take action promptly. Timely attention can prevent complications and increase the likelihood of successful treatment.
When you visit your dentist, clearly describe your symptoms, including when the sensitivity began and anything that makes it better or worse. They will thoroughly examine your mouth in order to determine the true cause of the sensitivity. From there, they can suggest a treatment plan. You might need something relatively simple, such as antibiotics or a filling in one of your natural teeth. In other cases, though, it might be necessary for your entire implant to be removed. Later, after any necessary additional procedures and a healing period, you may be able to receive a new one.
Sensitivity near a dental implant should never be ignored or dismissed as a minor inconvenience! Instead, take careful note of your symptoms and seek professional care right away.
Meet the Practice
At Salt Lake Smiles in West Jordan, Dr. Osterhoudt and our team are proud to provide a broad range of services, including comprehensive dental implant care. If you are concerned about sensitivity, whether it is near a dental implant or elsewhere in your mouth, we can evaluate the situation and recommend your next steps. To learn more about us or to request an appointment, contact our office at 801-568-0172.