Dental implants refer to the placement of an artificial tooth in case the natural tooth is missing or lost. It is surgically placed into the jawbone restoring one’s natural smile and functionality. It provides a stable foundation to the neighboring teeth offering great functionality and long-term durability.
Though dental implants are considered the best option to fulfill the needs of a missing tooth just like other medical issues it also has its considerations and potential drawbacks. In this article, we will explore whether dental implants are sensitive to hot or cold.
Here it is to understand that dental implants are artificial teeth usually made from titanium that does not contain any nerves or blood vessels like natural teeth so they cannot have sensitivity to hot or cold. But several factors are causing the implant to get sensitive. Let’s delve into the factors that can potentially lead to dental implant sensitivity.
Fitted Dental Implant
If the implant has not been fitted properly, it can cause sensitivity. If the implant insertion is incorrect, it can damage the nerves and tissues causing severe pain and sensitivity.
Improper Oral Hygiene
The sensitivity issue also emerges if one is not maintaining good oral hygiene, if brushing and flossing are not done with due care the bacteria may accumulate around the implant causing sensitivity and infection.
Production of Mucosal Lining
When the dental implant takes place, the body produces the new gum tissue, called mucosal lining around the implant, like the natural lining in our mouth, the mucosal lining is also sensitive to hot or cold. By keeping the implant clean by brushing and flossing, one can easily prevent this problem.
Teeth Grinding
If one with a dental implant tooth grinds his teeth, it can lead to implant sensitivity. So people should avoid grinding their teeth and may their dental care specialist recommend some grinding-reducing mouth wear. And try to treat the irritation you are feeling that makes you grind your teeth.
Take a Healthy Diet and Avoid Alcoholic Drinks
Highly acidic and spicy foods can cause infection in the surrounding tissues. The swollen surroundings can cause the implant to become sensitive. Similarly, increased intake of alcoholic drinks and caffeine may lead to dehydration which is also a root cause to make dental implants sensitive. Healthy eating habits ensure sound oral health so people with dental implants must avoid foods and drinks that are too hot or too cold.
Dental Implants Near the Sensitive Area
If the surrounding gum tissue and the natural teeth near the implant are sensitive to hot or cold, the implant becomes also sensitive to hot or cold. Similarly, in case of any gum recession, the implant is also exposed to sensitivity.
Natural Tooth Sensitivity Transmits to Dental Implants
Sometimes the natural teeth are sensitive to hot or cold and the nerve endings transmit the pain to the dental implant. Dental implant due to their proximity to the jawbone also becomes sensitive to hot or cold.
Osseointegration
The dental implant undergoes osseointegration During the healing process. If this process is hindered or stopped no matter what the reasons are, this situation will lead to implant sensitivity.
Prosthetic Materials
If the prosthetic tooth is made of ceramic or porcelain, it may also lead to implant sensitivity. Because porcelain is more prone to thermal conductivity The material used for the prosthetic tooth, such as porcelain or ceramic, can impact the sensitivity levels. Porcelain, for example, maybe more prone to thermal conductivity and thus affect sensitivity.
Nerve Damage
In some cases, nerve damage during the implant procedure or afterward can lead to heightened sensitivity.
Cavities or Any Other Dental Damage
If the tooth near the implant has a cavity in it or a spot of decay or a crack, it also irritates the implant making it sensitive to hot or cold.
Stuck Food Between an Implant and a Neighboring Tooth
Food particles often stuck around the implant, this increased amount of debris puts extra pressure on the implant that causes sensitivity and discomfort too.
Hard-Bristled Toothbrush
Hard-bristled toothbrush damages the gums and implant area leading to infection and sensitivity.
Overuse of Mouthwash
In case of excessive use of the mouth wash the surrounding gum tissues become dry making the implant more sensitive.
Conclusion
Sensitivity in dental implants triggers pain and discomfort affecting the quality of one’s life. Before going to dental implant seek medical care that can determine whether the dental implant would be successful and long-lasting in your case. Despite the above complications dental implants are the most successful tooth replacement treatment. Though they sound like an overly expensive treatment but investing in dental implants if it is recommended by dental care experts is quite a profitable deal.
As it improves the individuals’ ability to speak, eat boosting their level of confidence and self-esteem by providing them an improved smile. The pain and sensitivity in dental implants are easily treatable by following the doctor’s instructions and by taking some medicine. Sometimes the problems automatically resolve with the passage of time. If the sensitivity lingers or the pain gets worse seek medical help or consult your doctor.