Reviewed by Dr. J. Travis Thompson, DDS

Dental implants have become a popular and effective solution for the replacement of missing teeth. They provide a safe, stable, and long-lasting means to restore your oral health and enhance the function of your bite.

However, while they are highly successful, it’s essential to recognize the potential risk factors and ensure proper care to avoid early dental implant failure.

In this blog post, we will discuss the most common signs of dental implant failure, their causes, and preventive measures to ensure your implant journey is a successful one.

Table of Contents

Dental Implants: A Brief Overview

Dental implants consist of a titanium screw that is placed in your jawbone and acts as an artificial root for the replacement tooth. The implant is then topped with a dental crown or bridge to mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth.

They prevent slipping or shifting, ensuring stability while eating and speaking. Additionally, dental implants prevent bone loss, making them a long-term solution for tooth replacement.

For  more information, read the blog, Dental Implant Procedure Step-by-Step: Your Guide to a Confident Smile.

Key Takeaway

Dental implants provide a long-term solution for tooth replacement, but their success relies on proper oral care, bone support, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking. Early detection of issues is crucial to prevent implant failure. Regular dental visits, good hygiene, and a healthy lifestyle enhance the longevity and success of your dental implants.

Causes of Dental Implant Failure

While dental implants generally have a high success rate, certain factors may contribute to their risk of failure. Some of the leading causes include:

  1. Poor oral hygiene: Good dental hygiene is crucial to the success of dental implants. A lack of oral care can lead to bacterial infections, gum disease, and other complications that can affect the stability and health of the implant.
  2. Insufficient bone support: A strong jaw bone is essential for the stability and success of dental implants. If there is a lack of bone density, the implant may not integrate properly into the jawbone and may fail.
  3. Nerve damage: If the implant is placed too close to a nerve, it may cause severe pain and potentially require removal.
  4. Infection: A bacterial infection around the implant can slow the healing process and potentially cause the implant to fail.
  5. Gum disease: Undiagnosed or untreated gum disease can weaken the gum and bone tissue around the implant, leading to bone loss and, ultimately, implant failure.
  6. Smoking: Tobacco use can slow down the healing process and affect the jaw bone’s ability to support the implant, leading to failure.

Common Signs of Dental Implant Failure

Early detection of implant-related issues is essential to correct the problem and prevent the need for additional procedures. Here are some common signs of early dental implant failure:

  1. Severe pain: While you can expect some discomfort during the healing process, severe pain could indicate a problem with the implant, such as nerve damage or an infection.
  2. Loose implants: An implant that becomes loose after the healing process may be a sign of infection or insufficient bone support.
  3. Sign of infection: Prolonged swelling and redness around the implant site may indicate infection or other complications. If you notice pus, a bad taste, or an odor from the implant site, it’s a sign of infection. Contact your oral surgeon promptly.
  4. Difficulty chewing: If you have trouble chewing or biting with your dental implant, it could be a sign that the implant has not integrated properly with your jawbone.

Tips To Prevent Dental Implant Failure

It’s important to take proper care of your oral health to maximize the chances of a successful dental implant procedure. Some preventive measures include:

  • Consider bone grafting: If your oral surgeon recommends a bone graft, consider undergoing the procedure to ensure that you have sufficient bone to support dental implants. Read the blog, ‘Do I Need a Bone Graft Before Dental Implants?‘ for more information.
  • Maintain an oral hygiene routine: Brush and floss regularly to keep the implant clean and free from bacteria.
  • Avoid excessive pressure: Do not exert unnecessary force on your dental implants, and avoid eating very hard or sticky foods.
  • Visit your dentist regularly: Regular check-ups can help detect and address potential issues before they escalate.
  • Avoid smoking and tobacco use: Both smoking and tobacco use can slow down your body’s healing process and increase the chances of implant failure.

For more tips on a smooth recovery, please read our blog, How To Heal Faster After Dental Implant Surgery

Get in Touch With Oral Facial & Implant Surgery Today

After investing time, money, and effort into getting dental implants, the last thing anyone wants is for them to fail. Failed implants can result in pain, difficulty with eating and speaking, and a compromised smile.

At Oral Facial & Implant Specialists, our expert oral surgeons, Dr. Martin and Dr. Thompson provide top-notch dental implant solutions and restore your smile with precision and care. 

With our advanced techniques and state-of-the-art equipment, you can regain confidence and enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile again.

Don’t let prospect of dental implant failure hold you back – trust the specialists who are dedicated to delivering exceptional results. To schedule your free dental implant consultation, call us at (847) 381-0106 or complete the online booking form. If you are searching for an oral surgeon in Deer Park, IL, we are here for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Do You Do if a Dental Implant Fails?

If you suspect your dental implant may be failing, it’s crucial to seek immediate attention from your oral surgeon. They will evaluate the implant and determine the best course of action, which may involve removing or replacing it.

Can an Implant Be Redone if It Fails?

Yes, in most cases, a failed dental implant can be removed and replaced with a new one. However, it’s essential to address the underlying cause of the failure before proceeding with a replacement.

Can a Broken Implant Be Repaired?

In some cases, a broken implant can be repaired by your oral surgeon. However, it depends on the extent of the damage and the cause of the breakage. Your dentist will assess the situation and determine if repair is possible or if a replacement is necessary.
 
If you are searching for dental implants near me, contact Oral Facial & Implant Specialists.

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