Dental implants have long been a popular, safe, and well-tolerated option for restoring an incomplete smile. Whether you’ve lost teeth to a traumatic injury or gum disease, dental implants are a great option. Unlike dentures, they feel, look, and function like the real thing. However, in a select few cases, dental implants can fail, which fortunately can be fixed by the expertise of a dental implants surgeon at Innovative Oral Surgery & Dental Implants.
Before discovering how and why a failed dental implant may occasionally happen, it’s worth taking a closer look at the anatomy of an implant. There are three main components:
If even one component becomes loose or broken, issues can develop with any of these three parts.
Even when a skilled clinician places a dental implant correctly, the process isn’t complete after the surgery. Over the next three to six months, your body will employ a natural healing response called osseointegration.
During this time, the jawbone will gradually fuse to the implant, enabling it to become firmly anchored in place. The initial healing process begins within days of the surgery, and over the next weeks and months, immature new bone will form around the implant.
It can take up to six months for this immature bone to become stronger, more durable mature bone tissue. When this process is complete, the implant will be strong enough to withstand the forces of biting and chewing. If osseointegration doesn’t proceed as expected, the patient may experience a failed dental implant.
Gum disease, bruxism, smoking/vaping, osteoporosis, and some cancer treatments may all affect how well the bone heals and fuses to the implant. Other causes of a failed dental implant involve the knowledge, experience, and skill of the clinician who placed it. If the implant wasn’t properly aligned, the impressions were poorly taken, the surgeon placed the implant too close to a nerve, or the surgeon failed to screen for preoperative infections, implant failure can occur.
The good news is that you can substantially improve the chances of a successful implant procedure by choosing a board-certified oral surgeon. Trust the experience and skill of Dr. Salin at Innovative Oral Surgery & Dental Implants.
If you suspect you might have a failed dental implant, you may notice signs and symptoms such as the following:
Good oral hygiene also is essential to avoid issues with implants. Brushing twice daily and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can help keep your gums healthy while your new tooth settles into place.
For many years, Innovative Oral Surgery & Dental Implants has developed a reputation for clinical excellence and patient-centered care that prioritizes your health, wellness, and unique needs. Our team is comprised entirely of board-certified oral surgeons with a wealth of experience handling all types of oral conditions and surgeries—from simple to complex.
When you need an oral surgeon to fix implants, Dr. Salin can help. As an expert in restoring oral health to patients who have failed dental implants, he takes pride in helping them feel comfortable and confident with their procedures. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
For over 50 years, we have had the privilege of serving our communities with the highest level of oral surgery care. We love what we do, and we look forward to providing you and your loved ones with an outstanding patient experience and incredible results.
