One of the best methods for replacing missing teeth is to get a dental implant. Not only does this titanium post serve as your new tooth, but it provides superior support for both your other teeth and jawbone! You won’t have to worry about facial changes or your smile shifting in the long run. There are, however, some cases where the post can fail. Keep reading to learn the possible causes of a loose dental implant and what you should do about it.
What Can Cause Dental Implants to Loosen?
Though the majority of dental implant procedures have a high success rate, there could be complications that lead to failure. These are several circumstances that can hinder your restoration:
Lack of Osseointegration: For the metal post to remain anchored in your jawbone, it must fuse to it through osseointegration. This is when the surrounding bone heals and grows over the implant, creating a permanent replacement for your root. If your healing process is impaired or there isn’t enough healthy bone, it could cause the post to fail.Infection: One major cause for dental implant failure is a condition called peri-implantitis. Similar to periodontal disease, your gums can become inflamed due to harmful bacteria in the tissue that supports the metal post. This can occur during the surgery or months/years afterwards, and can be more likely to happen with a lack of proper dental hygiene.Overloading: Immediately after your procedure, it’s important to avoid placing too much pressure on the implant site. Doing so can ruin osseointegration and cause the post to not be anchored properly. Over time, it can loosen and eventually fail.
What Should I Do About a Loose Dental Implant?
If you start to feel your dental implant is loose, be sure to visit your dentist as soon as possible. It’s also possible that they might find the abutment or crown is actually loose, and not the titanium post itself. Either way, your dentist can assess your condition and give the necessary treatment to effectively save your new tooth. You may even require a bone graft to provide sufficient bone for a higher success rate.
Speak with your dentist sooner rather than later if you’re experiencing a loose dental implant. Once they address the root problem, you’ll be back on track to enjoying your fully restored smile again!
About the Author
Dr. David Crumpton is an active member of a number of prestigious groups including the Academy of General Dentistry, the Seattle Study Club, and the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. He regularly pursues advanced training courses to constantly improve his techniques and practice. He also offers various comprehensive treatments, including dental implants. If you need to schedule an appointment for a loose dental implant, feel free to visit our website or call 817-587-4177.
