Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically inserted into your jawbone to act as replacement teeth. Dental implants are more secure and sturdier than dentures and won’t move when you speak. However, if they become infected, dental implants can cause bad breath.

To avoid the unpleasantness of bad breath and other risks, here are a few ways you can detect, treat, and care for your infected dental implant.

Signs Your Dental Implant Is Infected

The signs of a dental implant infection can be subtle and easy to miss. Some signs of an infection include sore or swollen gums, gums that bleed during brushing, or a bad taste in your mouth.

Causes of a Dental Implant Infection

Because of modern technological advances that require careful sterilization, the dental implant itself is rarely the cause of an infection. Infections are usually caused by poor dental hygiene such as a lack of brushing, flossing, or not visiting your dentist for regular cleanings.

If a dental implant infection is left without treatment, it can develop into a condition called mucositis, which is inflammation around the gum line and the gum’s mucous membrane. This can lead to peri-implantitis which could cause bone loss and the potential loss of the dental implant itself.

Treatments for a Dental Implant Infection

The best thing you can do for your dental implant is to keep up with your dental hygiene so it doesn’t get infected in the first place. You can do this by making sure to brush and floss daily, avoid smoking, and visit your dental professional once every six months. By seeing your dentist regularly, implant infections can be detected and treated quicker.

Treatments for infections that are caught early can include a deep cleaning, a special mouthwash, or antibiotics. In extreme cases, surgery may be required to treat a dental implant infection or the implant may need to be removed altogether, making early detection an essential part of the treatment plan.

Your Leesburg Dental Implant Professional

If you are dealing with bad breath or if your dental implant is showing signs of infection, then contact your local Leesburg dentist, Dr. Orobitg.

Eddie Orobitg, D.M.D. has served the Leesburg community with quality dental care for over 20 years. From dental implants to routine cleanings, you can rely on Dr. Orobitg for all your dental needs. To schedule your appointment, call 352-787-5919 today.