With the advancements in dental technology, the likelihood of success with dental implants is quite high. Many patients can invest in this restorative treatment and enjoy results that last for the rest of their lives.
But, although it is unlikely, there are circumstances when a failed dental implant can occur. If you have an implant, then it’s essential that you understand the signs so that you can contact your dentist as soon as possible.
If you have a failing dental implant, then it means that the implant didn’t integrate properly in the jawbone. Over time, the implant can become unstable and lead to further complications. Early detection is critical if your implant is failing, which is why we recommend regular dental checkups.
The First Red Flags That Your Dental Implant is Failing
One question we hear from our patients is, “How would I know if my dental implant is failing?” Rest assured knowing that these implant issues usually don’t appear overnight. In most cases, the symptoms are gradual in their development.
Watch for these early symptoms of implant failure and talk to your dentist as soon as possible if you are experiencing any of these things:
- Persistent throbbing or pain after the healing period
- Redness or swelling around the implant
- When you bite or talk, it feels like the implant “moves” slightly
- The gums are starting to recede and expose the implant post
Keep in mind that it’s normal and expected to have discomfort during your recovery phase. But if the pain or discomfort is ongoing or it starts to get worse, then that is a warning sign that something might be wrong.
What Causes a Dental Implant to Fail?
The key to success with a dental implant is a term called “osseointegration.” This is the process where the implant fuses with the jawbone to create a strong base for the implant. If there is a problem with osseointegration, then this is usually the root cause that leads to failed dental implants.
Problems with osseointegration usually occur because of an infection at the implant site or insufficient bone density to hold the implant in place. Also, other health problems can increase the risk of implant complications, such as uncontrolled diabetes or smoking, because they both affect bone healing.
The sooner you catch the early symptoms of a failed dental implant, the better the potential outcome. Early detection is often the key to preventing full implant loss.
How Do You Tell If Your Dental Implant Is Infected?
There will be noticeable signs if you have an infected dental implant. Some of the most common signs of infection include:
- Red or swollen gums
- Pus coming from the implant site
- The gums start to bleed from brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad taste in the mouth
- Pain when chewing or biting down
Infection happens when there is a buildup of bacteria under the gum line. If an infection is present, then the risk of failing dental implants increases. If the infection is left untreated, then it can quickly lead to the implant becoming loose.
If Things Feel “Off,” Call Your Dentist
How do you know if something is wrong with your implant? If something feels “off,” then pay attention. In many situations, patients can feel that something is off before there are any visible signs of failing dental implants.
For example, if you notice that things feel different when biting down, then it could be an indication that something is going on. Also, pay attention if the gums around the implant change in color.
Ultimately, the most important thing that you need to do is trust your intuition and schedule a check-up in our dental clinic as soon as possible. It’s possible that a cleaning, treatment, and even a small adjustment can be the key factor in saving the implant before failure occurs.
When you come to our office for the checkup, we will perform a visual examination and also use digital X-rays to see what is going on under the surface. These images offer an excellent way to check bone health and the stability of the implant.
Available Treatment Options If You Have a Failed Dental Implant
Rest assured knowing that there are treatment options available if you are experiencing any complications with your dental implant. Each patient is unique, which is why there isn’t a one-size-fits-all treatment solution for every person. Potential treatment options might include:
- Deep cleaning to eliminate the infection
- Antibiotics can be effective when the infection is caught early
- Bone grafting can sometimes be effective to secure the implant
If removal is necessary, then there might be an option for re-implanting after the healing period. But it depends on bone density and other factors. Sometimes, it’s not possible to re-implant, so we can explore other tooth restoration services at that point (such as a bridge or dentures).
How to Prevent Dental Implant Failure
Our team will share tips about how you can protect your implant and reduce the risk of complications in the future. The best approach is to be consistent about good oral health habits to decrease the likelihood of an infection and a failed implant.
Make sure that you are brushing and flossing carefully around your implant. Stay consistent with regular cleanings and checkups so that we can detect potential issues in the earliest stages.
Also, be careful to avoid damaging your implant. Avoid smoking and make sure to use a mouth guard if you grind your teeth at night.
FAQ
How would I know if my dental implant is failing?
The initial symptoms of a failing dental implant include persistent pain, swelling, or even the feeling that your implant is moving a little bit when you are chewing.
What is the first stage of early dental implant failure?
The first stage of a dental implant failure is when osseointegration fails and the implant doesn’t bond with the bone properly.
Is the dentist responsible for a failed implant?
If you have a dental implant fail, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the dentist made a mistake with the treatment. Surgical errors can contribute, but often failed dental implants happen because of factors such as infection, bone loss, or poor aftercare.
Expert Dental Services to Protect Your Implant and Preserve Your Smile
If you suspect that you are having a problem with your dental implant, then the most important thing you can do is contact our team to book an appointment. We offer a range of restorative dentistry services to protect your dental health and preserve your smile.
At myDental, we are committed to providing your family with safe, quality dental care. Book an appointment at one of our convenient locations to learn more about available services.
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