Nov 13, 2025
Can Dental Implants Get Infected?
By Dr. Leslie Patrick, DMD
Dental implants are a marvel of modern dentistry, offering a permanent and natural-feeling solution for missing teeth with an incredible success rate. But a common and important question our patients at Smyrna Dental Studio ask is, "Can my new implant get infected?"
The answer is yes. While the titanium and porcelain materials can't get a cavity, the living tissues supporting the implant can. This infection, known as peri-implantitis, is the single biggest threat to an implant's long-term success. This guide will explain what causes it, the signs to watch for, and the simple, proactive steps you can take to protect your investment.
What is a Dental Implant Infection (Peri-Implantitis)?
Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the gum tissue and, more critically, the bone surrounding a dental implant. It is essentially gum disease for an implant.
It starts when plaque and bacteria accumulate around the base of the implant, causing the gums to become inflamed. If left untreated, this inflammation can progress, destroying the jawbone that has fused to the implant. This bone loss can eventually cause the implant to become loose and fail.
Recognizing the Key Warning Signs
A dental implant infection can develop years after the implant was placed. It is crucial to be aware of the early warning signs so you can act quickly. Call your dentist immediately if you notice:
Red, swollen, or tender gums around the implant crown.
Bleeding when you brush or floss around the implant.
Persistent pain or discomfort in the area.
A feeling that the implant is loose or wiggling.
A persistent bad taste or pus (discharge) coming from the site.
What Are the Main Risk Factors for an Implant Infection?
Understanding the risks is the first step in prevention. You are at a higher risk for peri-implantitis if you:
Have a History of Gum Disease: The same bacteria that caused gum disease on your natural teeth can attack the tissues around your implant.
Are a Smoker: Smoking restricts blood flow to the gums, which severely impairs your body's ability to heal and fight off infection.
Have Poor Oral Hygiene: Inconsistent brushing and flossing allow plaque to build up.
Have Uncontrolled Diabetes: This and other immune-compromising conditions can make it harder for your body to fight infection.
How to Prevent Dental Implant Infections: A Partnership for Health
The great news is that peri-implantitis is almost always preventable. The long-term success of your implant is a partnership between our expert placement and your daily care.
1. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene: This is non-negotiable. You must brush twice a day and, most importantly, clean around the implant daily. A water flosser is a highly recommended and effective tool for flushing out bacteria from the area.
2. Attend Your Regular Dental Visits: You must continue with your six-month dental checkups and cleanings. Our hygienists use specialized instruments to safely and thoroughly clean your implant in ways you can't at home. These visits also allow us to catch the earliest signs of inflammation before they become a big problem.
3. Make Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Managing conditions like diabetes and quitting smoking will dramatically lower your risk of complications and ensure your implant lasts a lifetime.
FAQs: Your Implant Infection Questions Answered
Q1: What's the difference between gingivitis and peri-implantitis? Gingivitis is the early, reversible stage of gum disease around natural teeth. Peri-implantitis is the more serious, advanced infection around an implant that already involves bone loss. The early, reversible inflammation around an implant is called "peri-implant mucositis," which is the first warning sign.
Q2: Can an infected dental implant be saved? Yes, if it is caught early. When peri-implantitis is diagnosed in its initial stages, we can often treat it with a deep cleaning of the implant site and antimicrobial therapy. This is why your regular checkups are so important. If it's left untreated until the implant is loose, it often has to be removed.
Q3: What should I do if I think my implant is infected? Call your Smyrna emergency dentist immediately. Do not wait to see if it gets better. The sooner you come in for an evaluation, the better our chances of saving your implant and protecting your oral health.
Q4: I've had my implant for 10 years with no problems. Am I still at risk? Yes. An implant infection can occur at any time, even many years after placement. The most common cause of a late-stage infection is a gradual lapse in oral hygiene or missing your regular dental cleanings. You must remain diligent in your care for the entire life of the implant.
A Healthy Smile is a Team Effort
Your dental implant is a remarkable, long-term investment in your smile and quality of life. While it is not susceptible to cavities, it relies completely on the health of the gums and bone that support it. By committing to your daily oral hygiene and regular professional checkups, you can ensure your implant remains healthy and stable for a lifetime.
If you have an implant and it's been a while since your last checkup, or if you notice any of the warning signs of an infection, contact Smyrna Dental Studio immediately to schedule your appointment.
