Dental implants have changed how we look at the problems of missing teeth, and if done correctly, they could fully replace the function and looks of our natural teeth. However, if you are considering or already have implants, please consider reading this blog post so you can fully understand your risks and how to manage them. So, what could cause and how to prevent, treat, and recognize dental implant failures? Let us break down in simple and easy-to-understand terms what patients and dentists need to be on the lookout for.

Causes of Dental Implant Failure

Several significant factors can contribute to dental implant complications:

• Peri-implantitis: This harmful gum and bone tissue inflammation around dental implants leads to bone loss and implant mobility.
• Poor Implant Placement: Incorrect positioning can hinder proper integration with the bone, leading to complications.
• Nerve Damage from Implants: If a dental implant is placed too close to our inferior alveolar nerve, we might feel pain, numbness, or even tingling in the gums, lips, or chin.
• Metal Allergy: This is one of the rarest causes, and tests are available to determine if the patient has a metal allergy.
• Bone Loss Around Implants: Insufficient bone density or volume due to bone remodeling after implant placement can lead to instability.

Symptoms of Dental Implant Failure

Recognizing early signs of implant failure is vital:

• Loose Dental Implants: Movement or instability of the implant.
• Implant Infection Symptoms: Redness, swelling, or pus around the implant site.
• Gum Recession Around Implants: Pulling back of the gum tissue, exposing more of the implant.
• Pain or Discomfort: Persistent pain that doesn't subside after the healing period.

Prevention Strategies

To minimize the risk of implant failure:

• Choose an Experienced Provider: Select an implant dentist who places dental implants regularly and has experience dealing with complications.
• Advanced Technology: Choose a dental clinic that uses the latest technology, like the Yomi Robotic-Guidance system, for precise implant placement.
• Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups prevent infections and peri-implant diseases. Pro Tip: AirFlow Cleaning is a game-changer for cleaning and maintaining dental implants.
• Address Health Conditions: Diabetes and vitamin D3 deficiency cause poor healing and implant integration.
• Avoid Tobacco Use: Smoking, chewing, and vaping are major known causes of implant failures.

Treatment Options for Failed Dental Implants

If an implant fails, several solutions are available:

• Implant Removal Surgery: This is the most straightforward, predictable, and standard solution. Removing the failed implant will allow the area to heal for future implants. This is usually done together with bone graft placement. In some instances, placing another implant right away is possible if conditions allow it.
• Peri-implant Disease Treatment: Addressing infections or inflammatory conditions around the implant area can help to save the implant from failure. It usually requires a lot of commitment from the patient and multiple visits.
• Bone Grafting: Rebuilding bone in the implant area to support a new implant is not the most effective for cases with extensive bone defects, but it can be effective for more minor, less severe cases.
• Implant Replacement: Replacing a failed implant requires accurate planning and precision. It is definitely possible but very rarely performed unless the dentist has the experience and technology to carry out such a challenging procedure.

Conclusion

While dental implants can be incredibly effective for replacing lost teeth, understanding potential complications is even more important. Patients who learn how to recognize symptoms early and adopt preventive efforts will benefit from the longevity of their implants. If you or someone you know is experiencing any issues with dental implants or considering getting one soon, click HERE to schedule a consultation with Cedar Park Dental Wellness. Our experienced, robotically certified dental implant team is uniquely equipped to perform the most complex dental implant cases in the most technologically advanced and minimally invasive way.