A dental implant is unlike any other treatment for tooth loss because it recreates the root and crown. A titanium post replicates the root, allowing your jaw to fuse to it through a process called osseointegration. You’ll have unmatched support and stability after your mouth has healed. Not to mention, your new smile can thrive for decades with the right maintenance. Although failure is rare, don’t ignore any warning signs, like a loose dental implant. If you don’t act fast, you can lose your dental implant. Here’s what you need to know to save your smile.
1. There can be several causes.
Dental implants are the most reliable method to treat missing teeth because they have over a 95% success rate. When placed by a qualified dentist on the ideal candidate, they can last for 30 years or longer with a commitment to your oral health. Your dental implant should never feel loose, but failure can occur in rare cases, which can be caused by:
- Failed Osseointegration
The long-term success of your procedure relies on your jawbone integrating with the post. Improper healing or inadequate bone density can cause a dental implant to fail, which usually occurs shortly after placement.
- Infection
Peri-implantitis is a leading cause of dental implant failure, which is a preventable infection like gum disease. It can occur at any time, even years after your placement surgery. Inflammation of the gums is often the first sign of peri-implantitis. Without any treatment, the infection can cause an implant to feel loose.
- Overloading
Overloading can occur quickly after placement if too much pressure is placed on the implants during osseointegration.
- Failing Restoration
Whether you replaced a single tooth, multiple teeth, or an entire arch, your restorations undergo daily wear and tear. Over time, they can get damaged, which can make them feel a little wobbly.
2. Contact your dentist right away.
If your dental implant feels loose, it’s not something to ignore. While the source of the instability may be minor, like a worn restoration, it can also be a serious issue that can cause failure. It’s best to contact your dentist right away. They’ll identify the problem to provide the necessary treatment.
3. Don’t skip brushing and flossing.
Step up your oral hygiene routine while waiting to see your dentist. It’s important to brush after every meal, floss nightly, and use an antimicrobial mouthrinse to keep peri-implantitis at bay.
Restabilize Your Smile Today
Schedule an appointment right away to safeguard your investment from failure. Your dentist will create a personalized strategy to rehabilitate your smile, which can include a new restoration, periodontal therapy, or another solution. Don’t wait until it’s too late to see your dentist.
About Dr. Kevin Dann
Dr. Dann earned his dental degree from the University of Toronto and has completed extensive continuing education in various specialties, like implant dentistry, dental anesthesia, and CPR. He can treat the most complex oral health issues. If your dental implant is failing, contact our office right away for an appointment.
