Dental Implant Failure & Salvage – Wheaton, IL
Saving Your Restored Smile
Dental implants are a consistently successful treatment, so there is no need to be overly concerned that something will go wrong with your restored smile. However, it is also important to keep in mind that in rare cases, dental implant failure can occur. If you ever believe that is happening to you, call our Wheaton dental team right away. We will examine your mouth, strive to determine what is causing the problem, and recommend your next steps. Dental implant salvage services may be able to get your oral health back on track!
Why Do Dental Implants Fail?
The most common cause of dental implant failure is an infection of the gum tissue known as peri-implantitis. When harmful bacteria attack the tissue around an implant, they can eventually cause so much damage that the implant loses its base of support. Often, poor oral hygiene is a big contributor to the development of peri-implantitis.
Other potential causes of dental implant failure include:
- Failed osseointegration (failure of the oral tissues to bond with the implant)
- Physical trauma, such as what may occur in an accident or as the result of chronic teeth grinding
- Underlying medical conditions, such as some types of cancer or uncontrolled diabetes
Symptoms of a Failed Dental Implant
It is important to note that dental implant failure can occur at any time — it could even happen years or decades after the initial placement surgery. Therefore, you should always monitor your oral health and take action at the first indication that something is amiss. Here are some signs and symptoms that you should look out for:
- Unusual pain. After you get used to using your implants, they should feel like a normal part of your body. Severe or unusual pain deserves professional attention.
- Difficulty chewing. Once you adapt to eating with your implants, you should feel comfortable eating almost any food. Challenges in this area are a big red flag.
- Signs of infection. Pus, redness, swelling, and gum recession could all indicate the presence of peri-implantitis.
- An implant feels loose. This could be an issue with the implant itself or with the crown, bridge, or denture on top of it.
How Dental Implant Salvage Works
Call us to request an appointment as soon as you suspect that something is not right with your dental implants. The earlier you receive care, the more likely it is that the situation can be addressed via conservative means.
During your appointment, we will visually examine your mouth and take some X-rays. Then, we will recommend your next steps. You might need something relatively simple, such as some antibiotics or a new restoration (crown, bridge, or denture). However, there is also the chance that more extensive care will be necessary.
We might need to refer you to a local specialist, who may determine that you need a bone graft. It is also possible that it will be necessary to completely remove the failing implant. After a recovery period, it may be possible for you to receive a completely new implant.