Dental implants are widely considered one of the most successful and long-lasting solutions for replacing missing teeth. With proper care, they can last decades or even a lifetime. However, like any medical or dental procedure, there is still a small risk of complications. Dental implant failure, though rare, can occur, and recognizing the early signs can make all the difference in preserving your oral health. Here’s what you need to know about how to spot potential implant failure and when to seek help from your dentist.
Early vs. Late Dental Implant Failure
Dental implant failure can be classified into two types:
- Early failure happens within the first few weeks or months after surgery, often due to poor healing, infection, or insufficient bone integration.
- Late failure occurs months or years later and is typically caused by factors like gum disease, bone loss, or excessive pressure on the implant.
Understanding the timeline can help you and your dentist pinpoint the cause and take corrective action.
Common Signs of Implant Failure
Whether it occurs early or late, implant failure usually presents with one or more of these symptoms.
Pain or Discomfort
While some discomfort is normal after implant surgery, persistent or worsening pain may indicate a problem. A failed implant might cause sharp pain when chewing, biting, or applying light pressure.
Gum Inflammation or Swelling
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums around the implant site could be a sign of peri-implantitis, a gum infection similar to periodontal disease. This condition can damage the tissue and bone supporting the implant if left untreated.
Mobility or Looseness
A healthy dental implant should feel just like a natural tooth, firm and stable. If your implant feels loose, wobbly, or shifts when touched, it’s a serious sign of implant failure. The movement could be due to bone loss or failure of the implant to fuse properly with the jawbone (osseointegration).
Gum Recession
If the gum tissue around your implant starts to recede, exposing the metal post, it may indicate an infection or bone loss. Recession not only affects the appearance of your smile but can also compromise the stability of the implant.
Difficulty Chewing
Implants are meant to restore normal chewing function. If biting or chewing becomes painful or difficult, this could signal a problem with the implant or surrounding structures.
What to Do If You Suspect Implant Failure
If you notice any of the signs listed above, contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately. The earlier the issue is diagnosed, the more options you’ll have to save the implant or restore your oral health. Depending on the cause, treatment might include:
- Deep cleaning or antibiotics for infection.
- Surgical repair or bone grafting.
- Removal and replacement of the implant.
While dental implants boast a high success rate, it’s important to be aware of the warning signs of failure. Persistent pain, swelling, mobility, or gum changes around your implant should never be ignored. Regular dental checkups and excellent oral hygiene can greatly reduce your risk and help ensure your implant serves you well for many years to come.
About the Practice
Whether you’re experiencing current issues with your dental implants or you’re in the market for them, Soleil Dental is your one-stop shop for caring for your restoration. We can replace any number of teeth entirely under one roof, or if you’re experiencing failure of your implant, we have ways to renew the health of your prosthetic. Whatever your needs, we will see to them! Schedule your appointment online or call our Dallas office at (214) 304-2112.