Are you thinking about getting dental implants? You likely have some questions, like whether dental implants are sensitive to cold temperatures like cold foods or beverages. This is a common question that we’ll answer and we will also provide tips on how to avoid sensitivity with your dental implants.
Dr. Bebeau, Arizona’s leading oral surgeon at Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Phoenix, provides dental implants and specializes in All-on-4 implants. With Dr. Bebeau’s years of experience, you can be assured that you’ll leave our office with a confident smile.
What Causes Dental Implant Sensitivity?
Teeth can be sensitive to cold and even hot temperatures as a result of enamel loss. Since implants are artificial and zirconia-based, they don’t contain any nerves so they shouldn’t be sensitive to cold or even hot temperatures. If you do experience cold sensitivity after implant placement, it could be a sign of peri-implantitis or improper placement of dental implants.
What Is Peri-Implantitis?
Similar to gum disease, peri-implantitis is an infection that causes inflammation in the gums surrounding the implant. Bacteria and food build-up are the number one cause of peri-implantitis. The effects of peri-implantitis on your health can be dangerous to not only your oral health but also to your heart health. If left untreated, the infection can degrade your jaw bone and teeth. Peri-implantitis causes bleeding in the mouth which means that bacteria could travel to your heart and cause further health problems.
Signs of peri-implantitis include:
Gum inflammation
Bleeding while brushing
Jaw soreness
Pungent taste near the implant
If you have any of these symptoms, we recommend that you schedule an appointment with Dr. Bebeau as soon as you can. The faster peri-implantitis is treated, the less likely you are to need your dental implants removed or additional bone grafting.
A problem with a surrounding tooth could also be a reason for sensitivity in your dental implant. The adjacent tooth’s sensitivity could make it feel like your dental implant is sensitive because of their close proximity to each other. The adjacent tooth and your dental implant could be too close together or too far apart. Food may get stuck in the gap or you may have issues with biting—both of which can be the culprit of sensitivity.
All things considered, it’s normal for your gums to be sore a few days after you receive your dental implants. We recommend eating soft and non-chew foods until your gums have healed. But, if you experience sensitivity in your dental implants well after your procedure, it may mean your dental implants aren’t placed properly.
Preventing Peri-Implantitis After Dental Implants
To avoid developing peri-implantitis and dental implant sensitivity, there are simple, everyday things you can do to keep your dental implants in the best condition. When you practice good oral hygiene like brushing, flossing, and attending regular dental appointments, it’s easy to prevent All-on-4 dental implant sensitivity.
Comfortable All-on-4 Dental Implants In Phoenix
Dental implants are an efficient way to replace a missing tooth while appearing natural. Despite their natural appearance, they shouldn’t be sensitive to cold like real teeth. If you’re experiencing dental implant sensitivity, schedule an appointment with Dr. Bebeau of Oral Maxillofacial Surgery of Phoenix to get relief from sensitive implants.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (5/31/2022). Photo by Theresia Pauls on Unsplash