Reviewed by Dr. Matthew Young, DDS
Reading time: four minutes.
Dental implants have a high success rate, but like any dental procedure, complications can occur. These issues often start small and progress quietly before symptoms become noticeable. Understanding the early signs helps you take quick action and preserve both your implant and your oral health.
Table of Contents
- Spotting Problems Early
- Common Dental Implant Complications
- How to Prevent Implant Complications
- Schedule a Dental Implant Evaluation in San Francisco, CA
- FAQs
Spotting Problems Early
Because a dental implant does not contain nerves, pain is not always the first sign of trouble. Subtle changes such as pressure, swelling, or bleeding around the gum may appear first.
These symptoms can indicate bacteria below the gumline or a weakening bond between the implant and bone. Regular professional cleanings and exams are essential for identifying these issues early and preventing more serious complications.
Common Dental Implant Complications
A dental implant, like a natural tooth, lives in a changing environment. Everyday habits, hygiene, and small shifts in bite pressure can all affect its stability.
Loose Dental Implant
A healthy dental implant never moves. If you feel even the slightest shift when chewing or brushing, the bone may be losing grip around it, or the crown may have loosened from the post.
What to do:
- Stop chewing on that side
- Call your dentist immediately
A loose dental implant is always urgent. Acting quickly can save it and prevent bone loss.
Dental Implant Infection (Peri-Implant Mucositis)
A dental implant infection often starts small, maybe just tenderness or redness around the gum. But infections spread fast and can lead to bone loss if ignored.
Watch for these signs:
- Swollen or sore gums
- Persistent bad taste or odor
- Pus or discharge near the implant
If you notice any of these, contact your dentist right away. Infections do not heal on their own and need professional cleaning or antibiotics to protect the implant and surrounding tissue.
Peri-Implantitis
Peri-implantitis is a serious gum and bone infection that forms around the implant. It starts as mild inflammation and progresses silently, which is why early detection is key.
Common peri-implantitis symptoms:
- Red or bleeding gums
- Gum recession exposing metal
- A deep pocket around the implant
- Slight movement or pressure while chewing
Peri-implantitis treatment may involve deep cleaning, antimicrobial rinses, antibiotics, or minor surgery to restore bone and tissue support. With timely care, most implants can be saved and continue functioning like a healthy tooth.
Nerve Irritation
If an implant presses on a nerve, you may feel tingling, numbness, or burning in your lips, chin, or tongue. This can happen shortly after placement or years later if surrounding tissue shifts.
Call your dentist immediately if you notice:
- Numbness that does not fade
- Sharp pain or burning
- Tingling around the jaw or chin
Prompt evaluation by your oral surgeon prevents lasting nerve injury.
How to Prevent Implant Complications
Healthy daily habits keep your implant stable and your gums strong.
- Brush and floss carefully: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and implant-safe floss to maintain excellent oral hygiene.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Routine cleanings catch problems early and help maintain a high dental implant success rate.
- Avoid smoking: It slows healing and increases infection risk.
- Use a night guard if you grind your teeth: It protects against pressure damage to the implant or bone grafting area.
- Pay attention to small changes: Swelling, looseness, or pain always deserve a call.
Schedule a Dental Implant Evaluation in San Francisco, CA
At Post St Dental Group, we help patients protect their implants with personalized maintenance plans. Our dentists provide expert care for every stage of your dental implant journey, from bone grafting to long-term monitoring.
To book an appointment at our dental office in San Francisco, CA, call (415) 986-4534. Visit us at 490 Post Street Suite 520, San Francisco, CA.
FAQs
A failed dental implant may feel loose, painful, or uncomfortable when you chew. You might also notice swelling, bleeding gums, or a bad taste in your mouth. These symptoms can appear gradually or suddenly, and they often signal infection or bone loss around the implant.
Implant rejection is rare, but it can happen if your body does not integrate with the titanium post. Signs include persistent pain, gum inflammation, and lack of healing around the implant. If the implant never feels stable or continues to move, your dentist should examine it right away.
If you experience severe pain, swelling, or a loose dental implant, contact Post St Dental Group. Our team provides emergency dental care and implant evaluations at 490 Post Street, Suite 520, San Francisco, CA 94102, or call (415) 986-4534 for urgent assistance.