How can you tell if your dental implant is infected? Features of an infected dental implant are similar to those of gum disease and can include one or more of the following symptoms: Loose or wobbly implant. Red or puffy gums around the implant. Icky taste. Bad breath. Throbbing pain or discomfort from the area. Dull ache on palpation. Exudate (pus) visible from the area.