Dental implants can be life-changing. They restore your smile, make eating comfortable again, and feel almost like your natural teeth. But sometimes, things don’t go as planned. While most implants last for many years, complications can happen.
In this article, we’ll go over the signs of potential implant failure, what you should do if it happens to you, and when to call your implant specialist for help.
If You’re Thinking About Getting a Dental Implant
Dental implant procedures are a common practice in most modern dental offices and are nearly always successful. But you can experience a failed dental implant, although it’s relatively rare.
This article is for anyone who:
- Recently had a dental implant and wants to know what’s routine healing is and what’s not.
- Has had an implant for a while but feels new pain, swelling, or shifting.
- Is considering getting dental implants and wants an honest assessment of potential warning signs.
Most dental implants never cause problems. However, if something doesn’t feel right with your implant, it’s always best to check in with your dentist. A quick visit can often prevent a minor issue from escalating into a major one.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are prostheses surgically inserted into your jaw to regain normal mouth functions. While implants are the more permanent tooth replacement option, some circumstances may still lead to dental implant failure.
Some possible causes of dental implant failure include implant misalignment, inaccurate impressions, infections, nerve damage, and poor oral hygiene. To find out if your dental implants have failed, watch out for some of these signs:
Severe Pain and Discomfort
Since dental implants require a surgical procedure, it’s normal to feel pain and discomfort afterward. But if the painful sensations go on for weeks and don’t subside or become severe, there might be something wrong with your implant. Any discomfort when biting or chewing shouldn’t be ignored, and it calls for a visit to your dentist.
Swelling and Inflammation
This is another common symptom after undergoing dental implant surgery. But, as with the pain, it should only be present for a few days following the procedure. Severe swelling and redness in your gums around the implant may indicate an infection. So, it’s best to talk to your dentist immediately at the first sign of this symptom.
Loose and Shifting Implant
Once the dental implants have been placed in your jaw, they should feel firm and stable, just like your natural teeth. Therefore, consulting your dentist is ideal if you think that your teeth have become loose or wobbly when performing normal mouth functions.
Gum Recession Around the Implant
When the gums around your implant start to recede, it’s a sign of dental implant failure. This occurs when your gums reject the artificial replacement, typically due to inadequate bone and tissue density or poorly placed implants. You will know your gums are receding if you notice a longer crown on your teeth or spot the metallic post under your gums.
Trusted Dental Implant Experts at Aegis Dental Group
Now that you are aware of these signs, you can better determine whether your implants have failed. If you experience any of these symptoms of dental implant failure, visit your dentist immediately. If you have missing teeth and want to enhance your smile with dental implants, contact Aegis Dental Group.
When you visit our offices for your no-commitment, initial consultation, one of our specialists will design a personalized in-office treatment plan tailored to your specific dental needs. Book online or request an appointment. Or call (833) 278-7833 to speak with one of our specialists. You can leave without booking a further appointment and take your treatment plan home to go over it privatley. Let us help you achieve the radiant, natural smile you’ve always wanted.