What Indicates Dental Implant Failure, and How Should You Respond?

Dental implants are a great way to restore missing teeth since they last a very long time and are very successful. However, in rare cases, implant failure can occur due to problems with osseointegration, infection, damage, or other issues. Knowing the signs of a failing implant allows you to seek prompt treatment to save or replace it before extensive complications develop.

What Are the Initial Indicators of Dental Implant Failure?

Some early signs of dental implant failure include:

• Loosening of the implant post or crown
• A “hollow” or empty feeling when tapping the implant
• Swelling, redness, bleeding, or pain around the implant site
• Changes in the positioning of the implant crown
• Sudden onset of sensitivity or pain when eating or brushing
• Exposed metal implant post due to receding gums

These symptoms indicate the implant is not integrating properly with the jawbone or has become infected. Immediate dental attention is required to diagnose the cause and determine if the implant can be saved.

When is a failing implant considered hopeless?

Many failing dental implants can be repaired and restored with prompt treatment of the signs above. But if an implant displays these signs of hopeless failure, it likely requires replacement:

• The implant has lost significant bone support and is loose or mobile
• Chronic, painful infection around the implant won’t resolve
• There are signs of extensive damage, like a fractured implant post
• The implant crown is so loose it has fallen out repeatedly

In these cases, the implant will likely continue deteriorating until it has to be extracted. Removing and replacing the failing implant immediately prevents further loss of the supporting jawbone.

What if you notice changes around the implant site?

Subtle changes around your implant, like swelling, a dark ‘bruise’ under the gums, or a foul taste, can indicate issues like infection. Even with no pain, get any unusual changes evaluated ASAP. Waiting to treat implant infection can lead to bone loss and eventual failure.

If you notice recession around the implant with more metal exposed, the supporting gum tissue retreats – a red flag for implant problems. Ongoing follow-up care and good oral hygiene help prevent gum recession. Notify your dentist about any implant site changes.

Is a loose or painful implant always failing?

Not necessarily. Occasional soreness and sensitivity are expected, especially with a new implant, as you get used to chewing and biting. A slightly loose implant crown is common and can often be restored with a simple recementing.

However, consistent implant pain, a looseness that keeps worsening, or extreme mobility indicates a deeper issue requiring an exam. If an implant feels loose or painful due to failure, bone loss is usually visible on X-rays. Pay attention to these signs, as saving the implant becomes less likely.

What are the options if an implant fails?

If your dentist determines your dental implant in Waterford, MI, can’t be salvaged, replacing it is typically the best option. An implant can often be redone in the same site after removing the old implant, and sufficient bone healing has occurred.

For severely failed or infected implants, a bone graft might be required to rebuild lost bone before placing the new implant. In some cases of implant failure, alternatives like bridges or partial dentures may be recommended instead of repeat implant placement.

The good news is that replacement implants have very high success rates with proper care compared to original implants. Be sure to follow your dental adviser to maximize the longevity of your new implant. See your dentist in Waterford, MI, or dentist 48329 immediately if you notice any troubling symptoms this time. Ongoing dental visits help catch any problems early.

Don’t panic if you develop signs of implant failure. Schedule an assessment with your local emergency dentist near you to determine the best solution. The Waterford Dentist offers experienced implant placement and restoration to get your smile looking its best.