Signs Your Implant Is Infected
Early detection saves implants. Here are the warning signs and what to do immediately.
Dr. Michael Stevens
Periodontist
Early signs
- Gum bleeding around the implant
- Slight redness or swelling
- Gum tenderness
- Bad taste
Later signs
- Pus discharge
- Pocket deepening
- Visible bone loss on x-ray
- Persistent discomfort
Advanced signs
- Implant mobility
- Significant bone loss
- Severe pain
- Fistula (pus channel)
What to do
Contact your dentist immediately. Early intervention can reverse many cases; advanced cases may lose the implant.
Treatment stages
- Early: non-surgical deep cleaning
- Moderate: surgical access and bone grafting
- Advanced: implant removal, reconstruction
Prevention
- Hygiene every 3 months for first 2 years
- Water flosser daily
- No smoking
- Diabetes control
References
- American Academy of Periodontology
- Journal of Clinical Periodontology
Referenced sources
- American Academy of Periodontology
- Journal of Clinical Periodontology
Medical disclaimer. This article is informational and does not replace professional clinical advice. For a plan specific to your situation, book a consultation with a Paradise Dental specialist.
Related reading
Implant Failure: Causes, Warning Signs, and Prevention
Under 5% of properly placed implants fail — but here's what causes the ones that do, and how to catch problems early.
Dental Implants in Dubai: Complete Cost Breakdown (2026)
What a Dubai implant actually costs line-by-line — fixture, abutment, crown, bone graft, and why cheap quotes almost always hide missing items.
All-on-4 vs All-on-6: Which Is Right for You?
All-on-4 uses four implants to support a fixed full arch. All-on-6 uses six. Here's when each is the right choice.