Why Do Implants Fail?

However, in some cases, the treatment is unsuccessful, and the implant fails. Here’s some insight on why that happens.

What is an Implant?

An implant is a dental prosthetic device made of titanium. A dentist or oral surgeon will place the implant directly into the bone, allowing it to take the place where the natural tooth’s roots once were. This helps preserve the bone, which is responsible for holding the teeth snugly in place. When the bone is allowed to regress, the individual will face looseness in the teeth and eventual tooth loss. Implants help prevent this from happening and provide the full use and feeling of a natural tooth.

Signs of Implant Failure

The following are signs or indications that your implant might be failing:

• Implant has become loose
• Swollen or inflamed gums
• Severe pain in the area surrounding the implant

Reasons for Failure

In some cases, the implant placement will not be successful. There are various different reasons why this will happen, a few of which being:

• Peri-Implantitis: This is essentially when the implant becomes infected due to improper hygiene care. The bone may begin to recede from the implant due to bacteria growth if not cared for.
• Failed osseointegration: This occurs when the bone and implant fail to integrate; the bone does not surround the implant as it should to ensure that it is secure. This can happen due to the placement of the implant, whether or not the dentist used bone grafting, and if the patient smokes.
• Poor overall health of patient (pre-existing health conditions)
• Pre-existing infections in mouth
• Incorrect placement methods
• Grinding or clenching teeth
• Poor home care
• Diabetes
• Cancer

Of course, the reason for failure will vary from case-to-case. In most cases, individuals who have a chronic illness have a higher chance of risking implant failure. If you fall under this category, your dentist or oral surgeon will discuss your options at length with you prior to planning out any sort of treatment.

Implant Failure Treatment

If you are experiencing implant failure, there may be a chance of salvaging or replacing the failed implant. Depending on why your implant failed and your health condition, your dentist or oral surgeon may be able to save the implant. If the implant can not be saved, in some cases it is possible to place another one. To determine if you are eligible for the salvaging or replacement of your dental implant, speak with your dentist or oral surgeon at Willow Gen Dental Specialists.