Dental Implant Failure & Salvage – Houston, TX

Why Do Dental Implants Fail?

The most common cause of dental implant failure is peri-implantitis, an infection that afflicts the tissue around a dental implant. It can eat away at the supporting bone and cause the implant to become loose. Often, poor oral hygiene plays a role in the development of peri-implantitis, though other factors can also come into play.

Other possible causes of dental implant failure include:

• Certain medical conditions, such as some types of cancer
• Traumatic injury, possibly from an accident or fall
• Teeth grinding and clenching
• Failed osseointegration (failure of the surrounding tissue to bond with the implant)

Symptoms of a Failed Dental Implant

It is important to bear in mind that dental implant failure can occur at any time, even months, years, or decades after the initial placement surgery. Therefore, you should always keep an eye out for signs that something is amiss with your restored smile.

Here are some indications that you should book a dental appointment ASAP:

• Unusual pain. Some discomfort should be expected in the first few weeks after your implant surgery. However, extreme pain or pain that occurs after you recover is a big red flag.
• Signs of infection. Swelling, pus, and gum recession are all potential signs of peri-implantitis.
• Difficulty chewing. Once you adapt to your implants, it should be easy to eat a wide variety of foods with them. Problems in this area are a cause for concern.
• A loose-feeling implant. This could point to a problem with your restoration or the implant itself.

How Dental Implant Salvage Works

You should seek professional care as soon as you believe something is wrong with your implants. The longer you wait, the less likely it is that the problem can be solved via conservative means.

When you come to our office, we will thoroughly examine your mouth and design a treatment plan. You might need something as simple as a course of antibiotics or some changes to your oral hygiene routine. However, it is also possible that you will require more invasive treatment. We might need to completely remove the failing implant. Later, after a healing period, you may be eligible to receive a new one.