My dentist completed a full-mouth reconstruction for me in 2020. It included implants, crowns, and veneers. Several implant teeth are infected, and two crowns fell off. My gums are swollen, and it hurts to chew. Unfortunately, the dentist relocated, and now despite my searches, it seems there are no current listings for him. I am concerned that another dentist must replace my implant, and I will need a repeat full-mouth reconstruction. I do not know where to begin. What do you suggest? Thank you. Karter from Charlotte, NC
Karter,
Any faulty implant part can cause complications
We are sorry to hear about your horrible experience. Although you cannot find your former dentist, you can benefit from getting another dentist to take a CT scan and identify the source of your concerns.
What Causes Dental Implants to Hurt When You Chew?
If your dental implants hurt when you chew, you may have an infection. Around dental implants, infection is a form of gum disease that can lead to dental implant failure. Signs and symptoms of infection include:
- Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- Bleeding around the implants
- Difficulty chewing
- Loose implants
- Pain, aches, or discomfort around the implant
- Pus around the implants
- Red or puffy gums
- Visible implant threads
Treatment for Infection Around Dental Implants
Depending on the extent of the infection around your dental implants, treatment options may include:
- Antibiotics
- Antimicrobial therapy
- Laser therapy for your gums
- Surgery
- Implant removal and replacement, depending on the quality and condition of your existing implants
Find a Skilled Implant Dentist
Look for a dentist with advanced implant training or who partners with an oral surgeon or periodontist to complete implant surgery. Post-graduate cosmetic dentistry training will help a dentist restore your implants with natural-looking crowns.
Your new implant dentist or surgeon needs to perform a 3-D x-ray (CT) for a detailed view of your jawbone and oral anatomy and identify the cause of the problems with your dental implants. Please do not trust any dentist or specialist who is not willing to perform a CT scan.
Best wishes for a smooth recovery and a healthy smile.
Petaluma, California, dentist Dr. Rick Lane sponsors this post.