If you’ve made the choice to replace your missing teeth with dental implants, you’ve made a smart decision for your smile. They closely look and function like your natural teeth while also giving you a solution that can last for decades. As the most predictable option to treat tooth loss, you probably never expect to have any issues with your dental implants. Although it is rare, they can fail. Here are the most common signs there’s a problem with your new smile.
Signs of Dental Implant Failure
Over 500,000 people per year are turning to dental implants to replace their missing teeth because they have over a 95% success rate. They are proven to last for several decades with the right aftercare. Unfortunately, not everyone will experience this success rate. Despite your best efforts to protect your smile, dental implants can fail. Thankfully, if you act fast, your implant dentist may be able to save your smile. It’s best to contact your dentist at the first sign of a problem, such as:
- Pain or discomfort
- Loose or shifting implant
- Swelling or inflammation of the gum tissue
- Gum recession near the implant
- Difficulty chewing or biting
Causes of Dental Implant Failure
Most often, dental implant failure is a result of a preventable infection called peri-implantitis. It’s like gum disease because it’s caused by bacteria found in plaque and tartar buildup. Although it may not seem concerning at first, it will eventually destroy your oral structures, leading to a failed dental implant.
Besides infection, there are other factors that can cause complications, including:
- Autoimmune diseases.
- Poor blood supply.
- Certain medications.
- Poor general health.
- Overloading.
- Rejection of the foreign body.
- Allergic reaction.
- Nerve or tissue damage.
- Smoking.
- Bruxism or grinding your teeth.
- Lack of gum tissue.
- Radiation to the head or neck.
- Insufficient bone.
- Mechanical damage.
You’ll undergo a thorough consultation process before your placement surgery to assess your risk factors for implant failure. Besides a visual examination, your dentist will review your oral health and medical history, as well as your lifestyle habits to look for any red flags. They will also take a CT scan to look for any issues below the surface. In some cases, your dentist may recommend additional treatments before your placement surgery to help promote the long-term success of your new smile, like periodontal therapy or bone grafting.
Protect Your Investment
Although dental implant failure can happen, you shouldn’t be concerned about it because the risk is generally less than 5%. You can help ensure your new smile thrives by maintaining your home oral hygiene habits and visiting your dentist regularly.
If you develop any signs of implant failure, don’t wait to contact your dentist. Quick detection and treatment can save your smile.
About Dr. Robert J. Sanker
Dr. Robert J. Sanker is a trusted prosthodontist who can treat complex oral health issues, like tooth loss. He’s undergone advanced training to successfully repair damaged smiles using the latest techniques in dentistry. If you’re ready to replace your missing teeth with dental implants, he can help. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.