Dental implants are a popular and effective solution for people with missing teeth. They are designed to mimic the natural structure of teeth, with a titanium implant that is inserted into the jawbone and a crown that is attached to the implant. However, some people may experience pain or discomfort when chewing with their dental implant.
In this article, we will discuss the reasons why a dental implant may hurt when you chew and what you can do about it.
- Implant not properly seated: One of the most common reasons for pain when chewing with a dental implant is that the implant may not have been properly seated. This means that the implant may not be flush with the surrounding teeth, causing uneven pressure when chewing. If the implant is not properly seated, it can cause discomfort or pain when biting down. If this is the case, you should visit your dentist to have the implant checked and adjusted if necessary.
- Infection: In some cases, an infection may occur around the dental implant, leading to pain or discomfort when chewing. Signs of an infection may include redness, swelling, and pus around the implant site. If you suspect that you have an infection, you should visit your dentist immediately to have it treated.
- Overloading the implant: Another reason why your dental implant may hurt when chewing is that it may be overloaded. This means that too much pressure is being placed on the implant, which can cause discomfort or pain. This can occur if you are biting down too hard or eating hard or crunchy foods. It is important to avoid putting too much pressure on the implant and to chew carefully and slowly.
- Grinding or clenching: Grinding or clenching your teeth can put excessive pressure on your dental implant, leading to pain or discomfort. This can also cause damage to the implant over time. If you are experiencing pain when chewing and you grind or clench your teeth, you may need to wear a night guard to protect your dental implant and reduce the pressure.
In conclusion, pain when chewing with a dental implant can be caused by a number of factors. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, it is important to visit your dentist to determine the cause and have it treated. Properly seating the implant, treating infections, avoiding overloading the implant, and wearing a night guard can all help to reduce pain when chewing with a dental implant. By taking good care of your dental implant, you can ensure that it provides you with many years of functional and comfortable use.
