Should I see an emergency dentist for my sore implant?

Do I need to see an emergency dentist for one of my dental implants? I got dental implants in August 2016. They seemed to be healing well, but 2 weeks ago I started feeling some irritation around of one the implants.  It is also sore to the touch. Now it’s painful to floss around the implant and brush it. I decided not to chew on that side of my mouth so it won’t irritate the implant. Obviously this is a problem, but do I need to get in to see an emergency dentist right away or should I wait to see how soon I can see the oral surgeon who did the implants? R.L.

R.L. – Your description sounds like there is an infection around the implants. If it’s left untreated, it will spread. It can affect other teeth, as well as your jawbone. That’s concerning, and it’s a good reason to see an emergency dentist.

Some of the signs and symptoms of a dental implant infection are listed below:

·    A loose implant

·    Swollen gums

·    Pain or discomfort

·    Bleeding

·    Pus around the fixture

·    Fever

·    Difficulty chewing

An advanced oral infection can spread into your bloodstream. It can affect your organs and become life threatening. An advanced infection around a dental implant also requires the implant to be removed. Often bone grafting is needed to replace the implant. There is a healing period before the implant can be replaced. It’s best to quickly address the infection and take prescribed antibiotics to arrest it.

Before you call an emergency dentist you don’t know, check with your implant dentist to see if he or she can see you right away. At least a dentist from the office can call you and give you guidance on what you should and shouldn’t do at home before your dental appointment. If you can’t reach your implant dentist, schedule an appointment with an emergency dentist right away.

This post is sponsored by San Jose dentists Dr. Ralph Stanley, Dr. Magdalena Azzarelli, and Dr. Rogé Jacob of Hillsdale Dental Care.

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