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What Are The Signs Of Dental Implant Failure

Asad A | September 26, 2024

Have you ever asked yourself, "What are the signs of dental implant failure?" While dental implants have a high success rate, failure can still occur in some cases. That's why it's crucial to recognize the warning signs early so you can seek help and protect the health of your implants.

In this blog, we'll discuss the key signs of dental implant failure and what steps to take if you notice any of them.

Key Signs of Dental Implant Failure

  • Pain or Discomfort

It's normal to feel some discomfort after getting a dental implant, but if it continues long after the healing period, it could be a sign of implant failure.

  • Loose or Wobbly Implant

Your dental implant should feel as stable as a natural tooth. If you notice that your implant has become loose or is shifting around, this could be a clear sign of dental implant failure.

  • Swollen or Red Gums

Swelling is expected right after surgery, but if your gums stay swollen, red, or tender for a long time, it could mean an infection. If not treated, this can lead to implant failure.

  • Difficulty Chewing or Biting

If your dental implant makes it hard for you to chew or bite comfortably, it could mean something isn't right. Your bite should feel natural once the healing process is complete. Difficulty in chewing might indicate that the implant isn't properly aligned or stable.

  • Gum Recession Around The Implant

If you observe that the gum tissue around your implant is pulling back or receding, it could be a clear sign of dental implant failure. When the gums recede, it exposes the implant and causes discomfort and a higher risk of failure.

  • Infection (Peri-implantitis)

Peri-implantitis is an infection that affects the tissue around the implant. If you notice swelling, pain, or pus around the implant, it's important to see your dentist.

Causes of Dental Implant Failure

  • Poor Bone Integration

Dental implants should bond with the bone in a process called osseointegration. If it doesn't bond properly, the implant can become loose and fail.

  • Infection (Peri-implantitis)

One of the most common causes of implant failure is infection, especially peri-implantitis. This infection affects the gums and bone around the implant, leading to inflammation and, eventually, bone loss.

  • Overloading the Implant

Sometimes, biting or chewing hard foods can stress the implant and cause it to fail. It's important to follow your dentist's instructions during the healing process to avoid overloading.

  • Gum Disease

Pre-existing or untreated gum disease can also lead to implant failure. Healthy gums are essential for implant success, and any infection in the gums can damage the surrounding tissue and bone, making it difficult for the implant to stay in place.

  • Smoking

Smoking delays the recovery and reduces the blood flow to the gums, which affects how well the implant integrates with the bone. Smokers are eventually at a higher risk of implant failure compared to non-smokers.

  • Health Conditions

Certain medical conditions, like uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders, can interfere with the ability of your body to heal properly and increase the risk of implant failure.

  • Poor Oral Hygiene

Keeping your mouth clean is essential after getting dental implants. Poor oral hygiene leads to infections, gum disease, and, eventually, implant failure. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are a must to maintain the health of your implants.

What to Do If You Suspect Implant Failure?

If you notice any of the signs of dental implant failure, act quickly to prevent further problems. Here's what you should do if you suspect something is wrong with your implant:

  • Contact Your Dentist Right Away

If you feel pain, notice swelling, or experience any other symptoms, reach out to your dentist as soon as possible. Early detection of implant failure can improve your chances of saving the implant or addressing the issue before it gets worse.

  • Get a Professional Examination

The dentist will get an X-ray to check the implant, surrounding bone, and gum tissue. This will help them determine if the implant is failing or if there's another issue, such as infection or bone loss.

What Are The Signs Of Dental Implant Failure
  • Follow Your Dentist's Treatment Plan

The dentist will recommend the best course of action if you suffer from implant failure. This could include:

  • Cleaning the Area: If you have an infection, your dentist may clean the area around the implant to reduce inflammation.
  • Antibiotics: In case of infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to help remove the bacteria and reduce swelling.
  • Implant Adjustment: If the implant is loose, your dentist may be able to adjust or tighten it.
  • Bone Grafting: If bone loss has occurred, a bone graft might be necessary to support the implant.
  • Implant Replacement: In some cases, the implant may need to be removed and replaced after the area has healed.
  • Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Brush and floss regularly to help prevent further infection or complications. Don't eat hard or chewy foods that could put pressure on the implant.

  • Avoid Smoking

If you smoke, try to quit or cut back, as it slows down the healing process and increases the risk of implant failure.

So, What Are The Signs Of Dental Implant Failure?

It is essential to be familiar with the early signs of dental implant failure such as persistent pain, loose implants, or swollen gums to treat it. 

If you're experiencing any signs of dental implant failure, contact Dental Arts of Florida in Jacksonville, FL, to get the care you need. Book your consultation today! New patients can call us at (904) 822-9786, and all other callers can reach us at (904) 998-9820.

 FAQs

If you suffer from continuous pain, a loose or wobbly implant, swollen gums, difficulty chewing, or infection around the implant site, then your implants may be failing.

Pain or discomfort is a common symptom of dental implant failure, especially if there is an infection or the implant has not integrated with the bone properly.

A failed dental implant can be treated. Before replacing the implant, your dentist may clean the area, prescribe antibiotics for infections, or perform procedures like bone grafting.

Dental Arts of Florida

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