Published at November 15, 2024
If you suspect you have a dental implant infection, it will need to be treated ASAP. Dental implant infections, if left untreated, can lead to pain while also jeopardizing the stability of the implant. Here are the main symptoms of an infection, plus treatment options that are available online.
Key Signs of a Dental Implant Infection
After getting a dental implant, it's normal to have some level of discomfort as you have just had surgery. However, if pain gets worse or doesn’t go away, it might point to an infection called peri-implantitis. These are the main signs to look out for if you think you might have a dental infection:
- Loose implant
- Swelling
- Redness
- Discharge at the implant site
- Fever
- Bad taste in mouth
- Bad breath
- Difficulty chewing
- Dull ache
- Bleeding or bruising at the site of infection
What To Do If You Have an Infection
If you think you have peri-implantitis, the first thing you should do is contact a trained dentist for an appointment. At 24HourDoc, we have a simple online portal where you can schedule a virtual appointment with a qualified dentist. Click here to set up your consultation today.
Once you have scheduled your appointment, whether in-person or online, be sure to take care of the implant and practice good oral hygiene. Here are some simple steps you can take to clean the site and reduce swelling and pain:
- Brush
- Floss
- Gargle with an antiseptic mouthwash
- Gargle with warm water and salt
- Avoid hard or chewy foods
- Stay hydrated
- Limit smoking and alcohol
Consulting with an Online Dentist
If you don’t have access to your regular dentist, or need quick, same-day dental attention, a telehealth dentist is a great option. Setting up a consultation with an online dentist can confirm that you have bad dental implants that require treatment.
In your virtual appointment, the dentist will discuss your symptoms and severity in order to prescribe treatment. Antibiotics are typically the first line of defense to be prescribed as they can eliminate the infection. If the infection doesn’t go away, or you have a loose implant, you may need surgical interventation. In this case, you will need to discuss your treatment plan with an in-person dentist.
How to Prevent a Teeth Implant Infection
Of course, the best treatment is practicing good oral hygiene to prevent the issue from occuring in the first place. To ward off infections, make brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste part of your routine. This helps remove plaque and bacteria that can collect around the implant. Flossing is equally important as it cleans the spaces between your teeth and around the implant where a toothbrush may not reach. Adding a mouthwash to your daily regimen is also a good idea to keep bacteria at bay.
A lot of people fear going to the dentist, but if you don’t have regular check ups, it is more likely that you will run into issues with your teeth. You should aim for two regular dental check-ups a year so that your dentist can monitor the health of your teeth. Especially if you have implants, it’s important to be hyper vigilant with your care.
Get Dental Advice Online from 24HourDoc
If you experience any signs of infection after dental work, don't hesitate to set up a quick consultation with 24HourDoc. Through our easy-to-use online service, you can meet virtually with an expert dentist from the comfort of your own home. If it is suitable, the dentist can provide a prescription that you can then have delivered or picked up from a local pharmacy. Prioritizing your health has never been easier, so don't hesitate to reach out if you're experiencing any concerns post-dental procedure.
