A dental implant is one of the most dependable tooth restoration options, offering long-term durability and natural functionality. However, if you’re wondering, “Why does my dental implant hurt when I chew?” it can indicate a problem that must be addressed immediately. Pain during chewing isn’t uncommon, but identifying its cause and addressing it promptly is essential for preserving your oral health and the success of your implant. 

Let us understand the potential causes, symptoms, and treatment options that can help you resolve the discomfort and restore your peace of mind.

Symptoms That May Indicate Your Dental Implant Hurts When Chewing

Dental implants require proper care and attention for long-term success. If your implant hurts when chewing, it’s essential to identify the warning signs to prevent further complications. Here are some symptoms to watch for:

1. Teeth Grinding: Grinding or clenching can put excessive pressure on your implant, leading to gum and jawbone pain. This often occurs due to misalignment or stress and can worsen over time. If you notice persistent grinding, consult your dentist immediately.

2. Allergic Reaction: Titanium implants may trigger allergic reactions in some patients, causing redness, swelling, or a tingling sensation around the implant site. This can indicate the body is rejecting the implant, requiring prompt medical attention.

3. Implant Loosening: A loose implant can cause discomfort while chewing. This may result from improper placement or gum infection. If you feel any movement in your implant, visit your dentist right away.

4. Swollen Gums: Swelling around the implant can signal an infection or increased pocket depth, both of which can cause pain during chewing.

5. Receding Gums: Poor implant placement can lead to gum recession, exposing the crown and causing discomfort.

6. Slow Healing: Delayed healing due to factors like smoking or poor nutrition can prolong pain and lead to chewing discomfort.

Why Does My Dental Implant Hurt When I Chew?

Dental implants are a dependable way to replace lost teeth, but if your implant hurts when you chew, it may signal an underlying problem. Here are some common causes for your dental implants to hurt when you chew:

1. Misaligned Implant: If the implant is not positioned correctly, it can put pressure on the jawbone or neighboring teeth, causing pain during chewing.

2. Infection (Peri-Implantitis): This infection occurs when bacteria build up around the implant, leading to gum inflammation, swelling, and discomfort, especially when chewing.

3. Nerve Damage: In rare cases, the implant may come into contact with a nerve, causing sharp or persistent pain while chewing.

4. Incision Opening: If the surgical site does not heal properly, the incision may reopen, leading to irritation and discomfort.

5. Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism): Excessive pressure from grinding or clenching the teeth can strain the implant and cause pain.

6. Poorly Fitted Crown: An ill-fitting crown may lead to uneven bite pressure, causing discomfort when you chew.

Treatment Options for Painful Dental Implants

There are a number of options available to reduce pain and restore functionality if your dental implant hurts when you chew.

1. Dental Examination and Imaging

A comprehensive dental examination, including X-rays, allows your dentist to pinpoint the exact cause of the pain. This step is important for determining the appropriate treatment plan.

2. Deep Cleaning

A thorough cleaning may be necessary in situations of peri-implantitis, or infection surrounding the implant, in order to get rid of bacteria, lessen inflammation, and encourage tissue recovery.

3. Adjustment or Replacement of the Crown

If the implant’s crown is misaligned or poorly fitted, your dentist may adjust or replace it to ensure an even distribution of bite force and eliminate pressure points.

4. Medication

To treat infections or reduce inflammation, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications to relieve pain and promote recovery.

5. Surgical Intervention

In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove infected tissue, reposition the implant, or address structural issues in the jawbone.

6. Occlusal Adjustment

If grinding or clenching is causing discomfort, an occlusal adjustment or a custom night guard can help reduce excessive pressure on the implant.

How to Prevent Dental Implant Pain?

Preventing dental implant pain involves proper care and following your dentist’s advice. Here are effective strategies to ensure a pain-free experience:

1. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene

Brush and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup around the implant, reducing the risk of infection.

2. Follow Post-Surgery Instructions

Adhere strictly to your dentist’s guidelines, including medication and care routines, to promote proper healing.

3. Use a Cold Compress

Apply an ice pack over a cloth near the implant site to reduce swelling and numb pain. Use this method in 20-30 minute intervals during the first few days post-surgery.

4. Stick to a Soft Diet

Avoid hard or crunchy foods that can strain the implant. Option for soft or liquid foods during the initial recovery phase.

5. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol

Both smoking and alcohol can hinder blood flow, delaying healing and increasing discomfort. Avoid these habits for a faster recovery.

Takeaway

If you’re asking, “Why does my dental implant hurt when I chew?”, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly. Pain could indicate an underlying problem such as infection, misalignment, or other complications. If you’re experiencing persistent pain when chewing after your dental implant, don’t wait! Contact Mount Zion Dental today to schedule a thorough examination and get the care you need. Our experienced team is here to ensure your implant heals properly and remains pain-free. 

Call us at (786) 565-5913 or visit our website to book your consultation now!

FAQs

Can an infection cause my implant to hurt?

Peri-implantitis or other infections around the implant can lead to pain, swelling, and sensitivity.

Why does my dental implant hurt when I bite down?

If your dental implant is misaligned, excess pressure when biting down can push the implant deeper into the bone, causing discomfort. This misalignment can affect the surrounding bone and tissues, resulting in pain when chewing or after meals.

Do dental implants hurt when eating?

While some discomfort is normal during the initial healing phase, persistent pain after several months can indicate issues like misalignment or infection. If pain continues beyond the early healing period, it’s important to consult your dentist.

Skip to content