Dental implants have completely revolutionized the field of dentistry, providing a durable and natural-looking solution for those with missing teeth. While they have an outstanding success rate of over 95%, there are instances when complications can occur, leading to implant failure. Continue reading below to learn a little more about how dental implants can fail under suboptimal circumstances, along with how to recognize the issue and prevent it from happening in the future!
How Are Dental Implants Used to Replace Teeth?
Most dental implants have three parts: the titanium post that’s surgically placed directly into the jawbone, the attachment piece placed on top known as the abutment, and the restoration that’s fixed to the abutment and aligned with your remaining teeth. If just one of these parts becomes loose, broken, or compromised in any way, issues can develop with the remaining parts.
Though implants have metal components, the body can still host them thanks to a process known as osseointegration, in which the titanium actually fuses with your jawbone. The body produces living bone cells to grow around the implant surface, thereby anchoring it to your jawbone. Over time, healthy bone continues to surround the implant. This is what makes dental implants so effective at replacing missing teeth; they restore the entire structure of the lost tooth, from its roots to its crown, and give it a strong foundation to reside on.
How Can I Recognize a Failed Implant?
Many of the factors relating to dental implant failure have to do with issues concerning osseointegration; to put it simply, if osseointegration cannot occur, the implants aren’t going to do their job. When bone doesn’t grow properly around an implant, the main sign is often mobility. The movement might be slight and only recognizable by a dentist at first, but over time, the implant may feel wobbly or move whenever you speak or chew.
Other signs of dental implant failure include general discomfort and inflammation, gum recession, impeded oral functionality, or infection. If your dentist notices any of these symptoms, as well as dental implant mobility, they might recommend an X-ray to check your bone growth or uncover the root of the issue.
What Are the Risk Factors for Dental Implant Failure?
The success of a dental implant depends on many factors, but certain habits and medical conditions can increase your risk of implant failure. Gum disease and bruxism are perhaps two of the most noteworthy threats; the former can completely obliterate the gum tissue housing the implant post, while bruxism can cause unfavorable pressure and movement. Diseases like osteoporosis can also attack bone strength and density, making it difficult for the implant to remain anchored. Some medications even have the potential to increase the risk of implant failure.
Fortunately, failed implants can be removed and replaced, but the bottom line is that it’s always going to be preferable to avoid this issue in the first place. Steady oral hygiene, routine dental visits, and avoiding bad oral habits are sensible practices that can keep your implants intact and your smile whole and beautiful!
About the Practice
United Dental Centers of Chicago has proudly served the dental needs of patients and families in the Chicago, IL area for several years. The practice is thrilled to offer a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatment options, including innovative solutions like dental implants. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one, feel free to contact the practice online or over the phone for additional information or assistance. Telephone: (773) 646-6262.