If you’ve invested in a dental implant to replace your lost tooth, you’ve made an excellent decision. With over a 95% success rate, dental implants provide predictable results that can last for 30 years or longer. In rare cases, complications can occur, like instability of the implant. A loose dental implant isn’t anything to ignore. Here’s what you should do to prevent dental implant failure.
Common Causes of Loose Dental Implants
Less than 5% of people with dental implants will experience failure, which can occur immediately after placement or several years down the road. Early warning signs can be subtle. It may not be until an implant feels loose that it becomes apparent there’s a problem, which can be caused by many things, including:
- Damaged Restoration: Your restoration is made of durable materials, but it will experience wear and tear. A damaged restoration can make it seem like the implant itself is loose. Your dentist can replace the restoration to restore unmatched stability.
- Insufficient Bone Support: The overall success of dental implants relies on your jawbone fusing to the post through a process called osseointegration. Bone loss is a common complication of missing teeth and infections. If your implant doesn’t have enough support, it can loosen and fall out. Your dentist can strengthen your jaw with bone grafting.
- Peri-Implantitis: A common cause of dental implant failure is an infection called peri-implantitis. It’s like gum disease, which can destroy your jawbone. It’s caused by poor oral hygiene that results in plaque and tartar buildup. Initially, you can experience pain, inflammation, redness, and bleeding near the implant. With no treatment, the infection can progress, weakening your jawbone. Early detection and treatment are essential for preventing irreversible damage.
Contact Your Dentist Right Away
If your dental implant is loose, contact your dentist immediately. Although it could be as simple as a damaged restoration, it can also be a serious issue that can cause your new smile to fail. Your dentist will get you into the office quickly to identify the problem to create an effective strategy to save your implant.
Protect Your Dental Implant
While you wait for your appointment, resist the urge to wiggle your implant with your finger or tongue. Try to keep it stable. Eat soft foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth. Take an OTC pain reliever to manage any discomfort.
Although a loose dental implant can be alarming, don’t panic. Contact your dentist for an appointment right away.
About Dr. Joshua Thomas Pogue
Dr. Pogue achieved his dental degree from the Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine. He strives to provide compassionate, pain-free care using the latest technologies and techniques. Dr. Pogue is a proud member of many professional organizations, including the International Dental Implant Association and the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. Request an appointment through his website or call (563) 362-3807.