If you have ever had one or more missing teeth, you know how devastating it can be. Not only does it affect your confidence to freely smile, but everyday functionality such as eating and speaking, becomes more difficult. Fortunately, dental implants have restored the smile of millions of people, granting them all the benefits a complete set of teeth provides. This restoration is so reliable, it has a 95% success rate but there are a small number of people who experience a loose implant. Read on to learn the reasons why and how to get your renewed smile back on track.
Why Can Dental Implants Become Loose?
As stated above, a failing dental implant is very rare for the majority of people. However, when it does occur, there are several common factors that can be attributed to a loose or falling-out dental implant. These include:
- Osseointegration does not take place: Osseointegration is when the jawbone naturally begins to blend with the dental implant, which makes it so long-lasting and reliable. However, if the body’s healing processes are not fully functioning or if the implant undergoes an excessive amount of force before healing is complete, the fusing may not occur. This can result in a loose implant.
- Infection: If the gums get infected, the bad bacteria can gradually deteriorate the soft tissues supporting the implant, disrupting the bond between them.
- Excessive pressure: If newly placed implants receive too much pressure, it can interfere with osseointegration. This can occur if dental crowns or implant dentures are attached to the implants too early. Additionally, you can loosen your implant if you use your teeth as tools (such as opening a package) or eat very hard foods too soon.
- Poor material: While an implant may feel loose, it could actually just be the prosthetic moving around because it wasn’t properly designed.
What are the Next Steps for a Loose Dental Implant?
As soon as you feel something is not right, you should call your dentist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. Give your dental team as many details as possible so that they fully understand what’s going on and how urgent the situation is.
A thorough examination will help determine the underlying cause of your loose dental implant. If the restoration has just become loose, it can be repaired or replaced. If that’s not the case, your dentist will have to get to the root of the problem, as well as the required treatment. For example, you may need periodontal therapy for a gm infection or a bone graft to strengthen the jawbone. If your dental implant does need to be removed to treat the problem, it can usually be placed again after your oral health has been restored.
You want to make your renewed smile with dental implants a priority and do all you can to avoid implant failure. With these helpful tips and assistance from your dentist, you will be sure to enjoy your new teeth for many years to come!
About the Practice
Spillman Family Dental of Rockwall is eager to help you restore your smile to complete health and functionality! Through the expertise of their two dentists, they provide high-quality and compassionate dental care with all of their services, including dental implants. The entire implant process is completed in-house with 100% custom-made restorations. To schedule an appointment, contact them through their website or call (972) 945-0887.