Can You Get an Infection Under Your Teeth Implants?

Question

I had 2 implants placed in the back of my mouth about 4 years ago. I have been noticing when I floss or touch the inside of my gums, it is very painful. I just noticed that the entire gum line, on the inside of teeth, is very black and gums appear swollen. The surgeon not only put them on top of a nerve so I have no feeling on half of my lip, gums and some teeth and chin permanently, but there is a huge space under one of them that food gets trapped and can not be cleaned with dental floss.

Lance Timmerman, DMD, MAGD · Answer

However, some complaints people have relate to the restorations themselves.  The contours and shape of crowns on implants is different than a tooth, and pockets are deeper.  Also, if the implants are close to each other, a black triangle can form.  It isn't pathologic, it just isn't pretty.

	 

	Go see the dentist asap and see what is going on.

Jessica Wyatt, DDS · Answer

The short answer is YES. Implants can definitely get infected, a term which is called peri-implantitis or peri-mucositis. It is absolutely critical to take pristine care of your implants to avoid getting either of these conditions. If your gums are painful, bleeding, or swollen, this is likely an indication that you have one of these conditions and that you need treatment so as to avoid the risk of losing the implant. Hope this helps!

Herbert Veisman, DDS · Answer

An infection under teeth supported by dental implants is possible indeed and is called "peri-implantitis". It is problematic because more bone is lost and can affect other surrounding teeth and implants. Best thing to do is to seek the advice of a board certified periodontist or oral surgeon and he or she will present you with your options at this point in time.

George Koutsoukos, DDS · Answer

You need to see another oral surgeon or periodontist. Now!  Let them take a look at the work you had and evaluate the problems.  You had them done four years ago and why did you let this numbness go on for so long if you knew they were placed on a nerve?  Now you are having other problems. Do not go back to this doctor.  See one that can help you since you have a myriad of problems here.  Good luck and do not delay!

Jay Neuhaus, DDS · Answer

It's possible that the implants are failing. Only an X-ray will tell for sure.

	Sounds like there are multiple problems, however, and perhaps you should get a second opinion from a Board Certified Oral Surgeon.

Can You Get an Infection Under Your Teeth Implants?

Answers (10)

Answer: Problems with Implants done 4 years ago

Answer: Problems with Implants done 4 years ago

Answer: Infection on Implants

Answer: Infection on Implants

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dental Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Can You Get an Infection Under Your Teeth Implants?

Answers (10)

Answer: Problems with Implants done 4 years ago

Answer: Problems with Implants done 4 years ago

Answer: Infection on Implants

Answer: Infection on Implants

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dental Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.