Gap between implant and gum: causes and solutions
El gap between the implant and the gum This is a question that sometimes arises after the placement of a dental implant. MAG Dental Madrid, a leading clinic in the neighborhood of Hortaleza de MadridWe explain why it appears, when it's normal, and what to do if you notice a gap or depression around your implant.
Although in some cases this gap is part of the natural healing process, in others it may indicate a problem with tissue adaptation, the prosthesis or the placement that requires professional attention.
What is the gap between the implant and the gum?
El gap between implant and gum It refers to a small visible or palpable space between the crown (the visible part of the tooth) and the surrounding gingival tissue.
This space may appear right after the implant is placed or weeks later, once the gum begins to remodel.
It is important to differentiate between:
- A slight and temporary gap, which usually closes on its own during the healing process.
- A large gap between the implant and the gumwhich may indicate loss of gum volume or gingival recession.
Why does a gap form between the implant and the gum?
The causes can vary depending on the timing and the technique used. The most frequent are:
- Natural gum recession after surgery
After placing an implant, the gum tissue may recede slightly as it heals, leaving a small visible gap.
This process is normal and usually stabilizes within a few weeks. - Loss of gum thickness or height
Some patients have thinner or more sensitive gums, which can affect their fit around the implant. - Poorly fitting implant or crown
If the prosthesis does not fit the abutment perfectly or the implant is slightly tilted, a visible gap may form between the crown and the gum. - Poor hygiene or peri-implant inflammation
The buildup of plaque can inflame the tissue and cause retraction.
In more advanced cases, it can lead to mucositis or peri-implantitis. - Insufficient healing time
If the implant is loaded before the tissue has matured properly, the gum may recede, leaving a small gap.
Is it normal to have a space between the implant and the gum?
Un small gap between the implant and the gum can be normal during the initial healing phaseespecially in the first few weeks after implant placement. During this time, the gum tissue is adapting to the new contour of the abutment and usually close naturally as the tissue matures.
However, This gap is only normal if it is slight and temporary.If after 4 to 6 weeks space it does not decrease or even increaseIt is important to go to the dentist as soon as possible.
A gap that persists or enlarges may indicate a gum recession or a lack of gum thicknessAnd in those cases, the specialist should assess the need for a gum graft or cosmetic retouching of soft tissue to properly seal the union between the implant and the gum.
En MAG Dental Madrid, we are experts in solving gum problems so much for natural tissue retraction as for complications following implant surgery.
We apply advanced techniques of gum graft and soft tissue regeneration that allow close the gap between the implant and the gumto restore natural aesthetics and strengthen the implant's protection against infections or inflammation.
Our approach combines surgical precision, biocompatible materials, and personalized planning to achieve a stable, functional, and aesthetically flawless result.
Photos of poorly placed dental implants
In some cases, the gap between implant and gum This is due to an improper position of the implant or crown.
This can create an unattractive result or make hygiene difficult.
En MAG Dental MadridWe have an intraoral scanner and 3D radiography to identify if the problem is in the gum, the bone or the prosthetic fit.
Gap between crown and gum: is it the same thing?
Not exactly. The gap between crown and gum It can appear in both natural teeth and implants, and is usually due to gingival recession or a poorly fitting crown.
In implants, this gap requires special attention because it can compromise aesthetics and promote the accumulation of bacteria.
Does the gum grow after an implant?
La American Academy of Periodontology, confirms that the gums do not grow naturally Once it has retracted, it can regenerate with treatment. In cases where tissue has been lost, the specialist can perform a gum graft or a gingival profile reconstruction to close the gap and restore the natural aesthetic.
Lump or hole after a dental implant
After surgery, a [missing word/phrase] may appear lump on the gum due to inflammation or the healing process.
You can also see a hole in the dental implant if the gum has not yet fully closed. This is usually temporary.
However, if the lump persists or the hole does not close, it is essential to have it checked to rule out infection or loss of support and address it as soon as possible.
How to fill a gap between an implant and the gum
There are different ways to to fill a gap between the implant and the gum, according to their origin and size:
| Cause of the hole | Recommended Solution |
|---|---|
| Slight retraction due to scarring | Wait and monitor developments |
| Gum recession | Tissue grafting or regeneration |
| Prosthetic misfit | Crown readjustment or replacement |
| Inflammation or infection | Periodontal treatment |
| Large gap between implant and gum | Aesthetic reconstruction with graft or new emergency profile |
En MAG Dental MadridWe use microsurgical techniques and biocompatible materials to achieve a perfect seal between the implant and the gum.
Time to fill the gap or complete the integration
According to European Federation of PeriodontologyThe average time for the gum to fully adapt to the implant ranges between 4 and 8 weeksdepending on the type of fabric and the technique used.
If the gap persists after this period, further review or intervention may be required.
Frequently asked questions about the gap between implant and gum
What to do if the implant screw is visible?
Si The implant screw is visibleIt may be due to a loss of gum or bone that has left the metal part exposed.
It is not normal and should be treated as soon as possible.
In most cases, it is corrected with a gum or bone graft to cover the area and protect the implant.
How to close a hole in the gum
If there is one left hole in the gum After an implant or extraction, the wound may close naturally within a few weeks. When this does not occur, a procedure is performed. filling with biomaterial or tissue graft to promote regeneration and prevent infections.
I can't see the screw in my dental implant, is that good?
Yes, not seeing the dental implant screw it is the ideal.
This means that the gingival tissue is healthy, well sealed, and properly covers the implant, preventing leakage and improving aesthetics.
What causes the gap between an implant and the gum?
It may be due to natural tissue retraction, gum loss, or a mismatch between the crown and the implant.
Is there a space between the implant and the gum?
Yes, but in most cases it's small and temporary. If it increases or if food is retained, it should be checked.
Why is the screw of my implant visible in my gum?
Because the gum or bone has receded, leaving part of the implant exposed. It requires treatment to cover it.
What is the gap I have between my tooth and my gum?
It is a space where the gum has separated from the tooth or implant. This can be due to recession or inflammation.
How long does it take for a gap in the gum to close?
In mild cases, healing occurs in about 2–4 weeks after implant placement. If the gap is large, gingival regeneration may be necessary.
Conclusion
El gap between the implant and the gum It doesn't always indicate a problem, but it does deserve attention.
En MAG Dental MadridWe evaluate each case precisely, monitor the healing process, and apply regenerative techniques to maintain the implant stable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing in the long term.
Request your review no commitment required, and make sure your implant heals properly.
Diploma of Advanced Studies in Clinical Techniques in Dentistry. (2002 - 2003). University of Barcelona.
Postgraduate Diploma in Advanced Dental Aesthetics. Catalan Society of Odontostomatology. Barcelona (2004 -2005).
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