Tooth Implant Failure: Symptoms & Treatment
Despite the many benefits of dental implants, they have the potential to fail.
But what happens when they fail?
- Can you get them fixed?
- Will you be able to get a replacement?
Rate of dental implant failures
The rate at which dental implants fail is about 5% - a small number, but this can be caused by many things.
Reasons for dental implant failures
The factors when an implant fails are in part related to the experience and care of the dentist, but there are many reasons an implant could fail. These could cause either an early implant failure or late/long term failure.
Early dental implant failure
Early failure of dental implants usually happens within 3-4 months of the procedure, when the implant is integrating with the jawbone.
Common causes of implant failure
- Auto-Immune Diseases
- Smoking
- Medications
- Poor Health
- Rejection Of The Foreign Body
- Nerve/Tissue Damage
- Neck and Head Radiation
- Poor Oral Hygiene
- Infections
- Lack Of Gum Tissue
- Lack Of Bone
- Allergic Reaction To The Titanium
- Bruxism/Teeth grinding
- Mechanical Damages
Symptoms of a dental implant failure
- Severe Pain or Discomfort
- A Loose or Shifting Implant
- Swelling or Inflammation of the Gums
- Difficulty Chewing and Biting
- Gum Recession Around Dental Implant
Treatment for dental implant failure
The first thing you should do is contact your dentist. If the implant area is infected, try to gently clean the area on a regular basis until you can arrange an appointment. Good oral hygiene is also very important in these cases.The sooner you notice an infection and get it taken care of, the better.
If the implant is failing because of too much stress or damage, your dentist may need to perform a bone graft in order to make it more secure.
Tips for dental implant failure prevention
The best way to prevent implant failure is to maintain your implants from day one. Keeping up good oral hygiene, brushing and flossing twice a day and using an alcohol-free mouthwash. Updating your diet to eat more bone and gum healthy foods, such as milk, eggs and fish, as well as avoiding hard foods, will help keep your implant functioning.
Scheduling regular dentist visits is also essential to maintaining your implant alongside your overall mouth health.
