Not-So-Numb: Why Does My Dental Implant Feel Sensitive?

Natural teeth are connected to complex nerve systems that can detect temperature, pressure, and distress. However, dental implants don’t have these connections, so it can be surprising if you start to feel a sharp pain. But what’s causing the discomfort? Continue reading to find out what could be happening to your dental implant and when to see your dentist.

How Can Dental Implants Feel Sensitivity?

While dental implants don’t have nerve endings, the surrounding tissues, gums, and jawbone can still experience irritation, inflammation, or infection. This can lead to sensations that spread out from the source and feel like regular tooth sensitivity. So, while the implant itself can’t experience discomfort, everything around it still can!

Why Does My Dental Implant Feel Sensitive?

If your implant feels sore, sensitive, or uncomfortable, one of these issues could be the culprit:

• Recent Surgery or Healing Issues: If your implant was recently placed, mild sensitivity could be part of the healing process. However, if the pain continues for a couple of weeks, it may signal complications.
• Gum Recession: If the gum tissue around your implant pulls back, the sensitive root area of neighboring teeth may be exposed. This can create the sensation of sensitivity even though the implant itself isn’t affected.
• Loose or Ill-Fitting Crown: If the crown on your implant isn’t secured properly or has shifted over time, it may cause pressure or discomfort that radiates into your implant.
• Infection or Peri-Implantitis: Similar to gum disease, this issue occurs when bacteria build up around the implant site. It can cause inflammation, tenderness, and, if left untreated, even implant failure.
• Bite Misalignment: If your bite isn’t properly balanced, excessive pressure on the implant can cause discomfort, especially when chewing. This is an issue that should be quickly addressed before it worsens.

Should I Call My Dentist?

While minor discomfort after an implant procedure is normal, ongoing or worsening sensitivity should never be ignored. So, call your dentist if you experience swelling, redness, or bleeding around the site, a loose or shifting implant, or have difficulty chewing and biting.

All of these symptoms, especially alongside persistent pain, are clear indicators of an issue that requires your dentist’s attention. Catching and treating these problems early can help prevent serious complications and ensure the long-term success of your smile.

A well-placed and properly cared-for dental implant should feel just like a natural tooth—without the sensitivity! Regular dental visits, good oral hygiene, and a little vigilance can help keep your implant secure and pain-free for the long road of life.

About the Practice

At Stec and Stines Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, our passionate team of dental experts excels at treating tooth pain of all kinds. Whether you’re feeling sensitivity in your gums, or your dental implant, they have the technology to find the cause and the skills to help you find relief. Call (308) 382-4440 to schedule a dental implant consultation with us or visit our website to see a full menu of services.