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Are Your Dental Implants Causing Problems? Here's What You Should Know

Dr. Garland K. Davis • Jul 20, 2020

Sometimes dental implants can fail on you. If that's the case, here's what you need to know in case your dental implant starts causing you problems.

dental implants

Dental implants can completely transform a person's oral health. They make a world of difference for those who've had misfortunes with cracked teeth, gum disease, and other oral complications.

Not to mention, implant procedures have a high success rate. Only 5 to 10% of implants fail after the surgery or years later— which is good news.

But if you find yourself in a situation where the results of your procedure aren't as they should be, there is help available. Keep reading the information below to learn more about dental implant problems and what you can do about them.

Common Causes of Implant Failure

Once you've gotten your new smile and improved smile, it's devastating to discover that there are complications. However, educating yourself on potential causes for implant failure will help. Common reasons for complications include:

Peri-implantitis

This is an infection created by bacteria that's present in the mouth before or after surgery. It's caused by poor dental hygiene. It can also be the result of the dental cement used to secure the crown.

Peri-implantitis causes inflammation of the gums or the bone around the implant. Since it's a form of periodontal disease, it could lead to bone loss and implant failure as well. However, the condition can be treated in some cases.

Osseointegration

Osseointegration is the bonding of the functional and structural connection between the bone and the dental implant. This process generally takes several months after getting the procedure.

When the jaw bone doesn't mend together efficiently with the dental implant , it's known as a failure. If the implant falls out or bone loss occurs, that means the procedure was not successful.

Not Following the Dentist's Instructions

After receiving your dental implants, your dentist will likely give you detailed instructions on how to care for them. Usually, the requirements consist of minimizing physical activity and keeping the sensitive areas of the mouth clean.

You might also have to temporarily change your diet and take prescription medication.

Sinus Issues

Sinus complications are a major setback. When dental implants are used to replace the upper row of teeth, a sinus condition makes the procedure more difficult. It gets even more complicated when paired with insufficient bone quality.

To create a strong bone structure, the oral surgeon might perform a sinus augmentation. The procedure lifts the existing bone into the sinus cavity to make enough space for the bone graft.

The purpose of that is to provide more bone in that area so that it supports the dental implant. However, if the dental implant sticks out into the sinus cavity, it can become infected or swollen.

Foreign Body Rejection

Similar to organ transplants, your body could potentially reject a dental implant. If that occurs, it means your body sees it as a foreign object that does not belong and forces it out. In this case, you'll have to speak to your dentist about other alternatives.

Dental Implant Movement

One of the most common post dental implant problems is movement of the implants. Within the first 8 to 12 weeks, the implant might not grow into the bone and soft tissue ingrowth occurs instead.

If that happens, it's really painful and it could mean that you have to undergo another procedure. Following the dentist's dietary instructions is imperative during this time. You may have to eat very soft food or be on a liquid diet until osseointegration takes place.

What to Do If Your Dental Implants Have Failed

If your dental implants are not a success, that doesn't mean they can't be saved. Sometimes they can be salvaged if you get help as soon as you notice a problem. By building up the bone and gum tissue around it, the artificial tooth could potentially stay intact.

However, in many situations, the implant has to be removed and the area has to heal first. Once it's recovered, you can try again. The process may take up to a year or until your dentist decides it's a good time to retry the procedure.

Based on how well the area heals, a bone graft procedure may be required. If your implant fails more than once, it could be because of the following reasons:

  • You don't have enough bone density
  • You have an allergy
  • Your body is unsuitable for implants

Your dentist might also be incapable of correctly doing the procedure. Going to another specialist for a second opinion is a good option. That way, you can make a sound decision on how to move forward.

Dental Implant Infection Signs

After your dental implant procedure, an infection could occur. If it goes untreated, it can lead to severe oral complications, such as bone loss and implant failure. The tell-tale signs below will let you know if you have an infection:

  • Difficulty chewing
  • Bleeding gums
  • Pain
  • Fever
  • Swollen or red gums
  • Constant bad breath
  • Pus around the implant area
  • A loose implant

Dental Implant Failure FAQs

What Are the Alternatives If My Implants Fail?

If your dentist determines that your implants will continue to be unsuccessful, dentures are usually the next option.

How Will I Know for Sure If My Implants Failed?

You must speak to your dentist to know if your dental implants failed. If you notice an issue, that doesn't mean that the implants are the problem. However, a professional should take a look at it.

How Early Are the Warning Signs of Failure?

If there's an issue, warning signs will appear within three to four months after your procedure.

Can I Prevent Dental Implant Failure?

Yes and no. If you follow your dentist's instructions after the procedure, it increases your chances of success. However, some complications are out of your control.

If There Are No Complications, Does That Mean the Implants Were Successful?

After a few months, if there are no issues, that's a good sign. On the other hand, future complications could occur. The best way to stay on top of your progress is to have regular visits to the dentist.

Get the Most Out of Your Dental Implants

It would be great if all dental procedures went as planned, unfortunately, that's not a reality. However, getting help as soon as possible can manage the situation.

If you suspect that your dental implants have failed, we can assist you. Our Laurel, Maryland office location provides emergency dental services and more. Also, if you need a second opinion on your current dental work, we'll be more than happy to help.

We've improved many smiles over the years and we can do the same for you. If you have any questions call us at 240 641-1184 or contact us on our website.

We look forward to helping you soon.

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