Persistent Saliva Flow After Dental Implant: Causes and Solutions

Excessive salivation?

Hello Doctor, my mother underwent dental implants (for the first and second molars on the lower left side), and since then, there has been continuous saliva secretion around the implant site.
Even after the dental crown was removed, she continued to drool, even while sleeping.
This has been going on for over two years and has been very distressing for her.
She was referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, who said it was normal.
Since my mother has been taking sleeping pills for a long time and has anxiety, she consulted a psychiatrist who suggested that it might be a side effect of the medication or a psychological issue.
However, this has severely impacted her quality of life, and we cannot find the cause.
What could this problem be? Which specialist should we consult? Thank you, Doctor, for your assistance.

Kai Luo, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/05

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology

It is generally recommended to visit an otolaryngology department at a medical center to check if the salivary duct has been compressed or injured (through endoscopy or imaging studies).
Injuries can be sutured, but if there is compression, the implant may need to be removed.
Another possibility is nerve compression, in which case the physician will refer you to a neurologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2017/05/05

More Info

Persistent saliva flow after dental implant surgery can be a distressing issue, particularly when it continues for an extended period, as in your mother's case. There are several potential causes for this condition, and understanding them can help guide you toward appropriate solutions.

Possible Causes
1. Surgical Trauma: The surgical procedure itself can lead to temporary changes in saliva production. If the surgery involved manipulation of the salivary glands or ducts, it could result in increased saliva flow. This is often a temporary condition that resolves as the tissues heal.

2. Nerve Damage: During the implant procedure, there is a possibility of affecting the nerves that control salivary glands. If the nerves are damaged or irritated, it could lead to altered saliva production, including excessive salivation.

3. Medication Side Effects: As mentioned, your mother is taking sedatives for anxiety. Certain medications, particularly those that affect the central nervous system, can influence saliva production. For example, some anxiolytics and antidepressants can cause dry mouth, while others may lead to increased salivation. It would be beneficial to review her medications with her prescribing physician to determine if they could be contributing to her symptoms.

4. Psychological Factors: Anxiety and stress can manifest in various physical symptoms, including changes in saliva production. If your mother is experiencing heightened anxiety, it could exacerbate her salivation issues. Psychological factors can sometimes lead to a cycle of increased anxiety about the condition, which in turn can worsen the symptoms.

5. Oral Health Issues: Conditions such as oral infections, inflammation, or even the presence of foreign materials (like the dental implant itself) can stimulate salivary glands. If there is any ongoing irritation or infection, it could lead to increased saliva production.

Recommended Actions
1. Consultation with a Specialist: Given the complexity of your mother's symptoms, it may be beneficial to consult with a specialist in oral medicine or a dentist who specializes in salivary gland disorders. They can provide a more detailed examination and possibly conduct tests to assess salivary gland function.

2. Review Medications: As previously mentioned, a thorough review of her current medications with her healthcare provider is essential. They may consider adjusting her medication regimen if it is contributing to her symptoms.

3. Psychological Support: If anxiety is a significant factor, working with a mental health professional could be beneficial. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or other therapeutic approaches may help manage her anxiety and its physical manifestations.

4. Oral Hygiene and Care: Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial, especially after dental procedures. Regular dental check-ups can help identify any underlying issues that may be contributing to her symptoms.

5. Hydration and Diet: Encouraging your mother to stay hydrated and possibly adjusting her diet to include less acidic or irritating foods may help manage her symptoms.
6. Follow-Up: Continuous follow-up with her dental and medical providers is essential to monitor her condition and make necessary adjustments to her treatment plan.

Conclusion
Persistent saliva flow after dental implant surgery can arise from various factors, including surgical trauma, nerve involvement, medication side effects, psychological influences, and oral health issues. A multidisciplinary approach involving dental specialists, medical doctors, and mental health professionals may provide the best pathway to understanding and alleviating your mother's symptoms. It’s important to advocate for her needs and ensure she receives comprehensive care to improve her quality of life.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Post-Implant Issues: Persistent Fluid After Bone Grafting

Two years ago, my mother fell and had to have 21 teeth extracted. Two months ago, she decided to get dental implants and underwent traditional surgery to augment the bone with bone graft material. However, post-surgery, she has been experiencing a continuous discharge of a clear,...

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry
Dear Ms. DY: Hello! It is recommended to return to a medical institution for treatment by a physician! Please maintain oral hygiene! Take care! Wishing you peace and smoothness in everything! Sincerely, Dr. Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry.

Persistent Discomfort After Dental Implant Crown Placement: Possible Causes and Solutions

Hello, doctor. I underwent dental implant surgery six months ago, and after the implant was placed, my dentist monitored the site for six months without any issues before placing the crown. However, after the crown was installed, I have been experiencing persistent dull pain and ...

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry
Dear Ms. Gao, Hello! Basically, a detailed X-ray examination is still necessary. Please communicate more with the implant dentist. Thank you! Wishing you safety! Sincerely, Dr. Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Excessive Saliva After Tooth Extraction: Causes and Solutions

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask for your advice. Several years ago, I had all four of my upper and lower right molars extracted, as well as my lower left molar, and I did not get dentures due to financial constraints. Over the past few years, I have noticed an increase in sali...

Dr. Yuan Ziming reply Dentistry
If you feel soreness in your wisdom teeth, you should see a dentist to check for cavities. Missing teeth can cause misalignment of your bite and increase the gaps between your teeth. Given your situation, orthodontic treatment may be challenging. The simplest and most cost-effect...

Excessive Saliva Production: Causes and Solutions for Sleep Disruption

This issue leads to difficulty sleeping, as saliva quickly accumulates and then flows into the throat, requiring swallowing. Upon waking, I can feel my stomach bloated, and I'm unsure if it's due to the continuous saliva flow. Additionally, I wake up with a bad taste in...

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if it is confirmed that there are no issues with the gastroenterology and otolaryngology departments, it is recommended to first consult with the immunology and neurology departments for further evaluation.