Dental Implant Failure & Salvage – Burke, VA
Save Your Restored Smile
Dental implants are successful in the vast majority of cases, so you do not need to be overly concerned that something will go wrong with your new teeth. However, it is still important to be aware that in rare instances, dental implant failure can occur. If you ever suspect that that your implants are not healthy, contact our Burke oral surgery team right away. We will perform a thorough examination and do all we can to save your restored smile.
Why Do Dental Implants Fail?
When dental implants fail, it is usually due to a specific type of infection known as peri-implantitis. It occurs when bacteria attack the gums and bone around an implant. Eventually, the infection can cause so much damage that the implant loses its base of support. Often, poor oral hygiene is a major contributing factor to peri-implantitis.
Other potential causes of dental implant failure include:
- Physical damage, such as what might be caused by an accident or severe teeth grinding.
- Failed osseointegration, which is a failure of the bone to bond with a dental implant.
- Certain medical conditions, including some types of cancer and uncontrolled diabetes.
Symptoms of a Failed Dental Implant
Dental implant failure can occur at any time, whether it is days, months, or even years after the initial placement surgery. Here are some signs that you may need to schedule an appointment to address a failing implant:
- After you recover from dental implant surgery, you should enjoy pain-free function from your new teeth. Severe or unusual discomfort deserves professional attention.
- Difficulty chewing. It should be easy for you to eat virtually any food with your implants. Difficulties in this area are a major red flag.
- Signs of infection. Pus, swelling, and gum recession could all point to peri-implantitis.
- An implant feels loose. In some cases, this indicates a problem with the restoration (crown, bridge, or denture) on top of a dental implant. In other instances, it means there is an issue with the implant itself.
How Dental Implant Salvage Works
You should request an appointment with us as soon as you suspect that something is amiss with your dental implants. The earlier you seek care, the more likely it is that the problem can be resolved via minimally invasive means.
When you arrive in our office, we will ask about your symptoms and perform a thorough examination. We may also use advanced technology to get a look at what is happening beneath your gumline. Based on what we discover, we can recommend a treatment plan.
You might need something relatively simple, such as antibiotic therapy or a new restoration. However, it is also possible that we will need to completely remove your failing implant. Later, after a recovery period and any necessary restorative care, you may become eligible for an entirely new implant.