How Do I Know If My Implants Are Making Me Sick?
By Dr. Eastwood – Summerbrook Dental & Implants, Fort Worth, TX
A question I sometimes hear is, “How do I know if my implants are making me sick?” The truth is, dental implants are very safe for most people. They are made from materials like titanium or zirconia, which have been used in the body for decades. Problems are rare, but if they do happen, they are usually caused by infection, irritation, or, in very rare cases, an allergy to the implant material.
If your implant is causing trouble, you may notice symptoms such as persistent pain, swelling, gum redness, bad taste in your mouth, or loosening of the implant. Infections around an implant are called peri-implantitis and can lead to bone loss if not treated. While this condition affects the area around your implant, it does not usually make your whole body sick.
Some people worry about “implant illness,” where they think the implant is causing fatigue, brain fog, or other body-wide symptoms. Right now, there is no strong scientific proof that implants cause these problems in healthy people. However, if you feel unwell after getting an implant, it’s important to get checked.
At Summerbrook Dental & Implants, I carefully examine the implant and surrounding tissue. If needed, I may recommend X-rays, cleanings, or testing to see if there’s an infection or a rare material sensitivity. If a problem is found, we can treat the infection, adjust the implant, or, in some cases, replace it with a different material.
We are a no-judgment office, and our goal is to keep you healthy and confident in your smile. If you have any concerns about your dental implants, we will listen, check everything thoroughly, and give you honest answers.
If you think your implants may be causing issues, call Summerbrook Dental & Implants today so we can help you feel better and protect your smile.