Dental Implant Failure & Salvage – Corpus Christi, TX
Restore Your New Smile
Dental implants are one of the most highly recommended forms of tooth replacement for many reasons, one of which is their impressive success rate. They thrive in more than 95% of cases! As remarkable as that is, though, it must still be admitted that there is always the slight chance of dental implant failure. If you ever believe that something is not quite right with one of your prosthetic teeth, call our Corpus Christi periodontal practice. We will do all we can to restore your new smile via our dental implant salvage services.
Why Do Dental Implants Fail?
The most prevalent cause of dental implant failure is infection. When bacteria sneak beneath the gumline, they can start to damage the tissues that support an implant. This condition, known as peri-implantitis, can become so severe that the implant becomes loose. In many cases, poor oral hygiene is a significant contributor to the development of peri-implantitis.
Other factors that may lead to dental implant failure include:
- An accident or long-term teeth grinding may cause severe damage to dental implants.
- Failed osseointegration. In rare instances, a patient’s body fails to bond with an implant.
- Medical conditions. Some types of cancer and other medical conditions can adversely affect dental implants.
Symptoms of a Failed Dental Implant
Whether you have had your dental implants for days, weeks, or decades, there is always at least a small chance that they will fail. That is why you should always be on the lookout for signs of trouble, including:
- Severe or unusual pain around your implants is always a red flag.
- Signs of infection. Redness, swelling, pus, and gum recession could all indicate peri-implantitis.
- Difficulty chewing. It should be easy for you to eat all of your favorite foods with your implants. Difficulties can point to dental implant failure.
- An implant feels loose. This issue might be a problem with the implant itself or with the restoration (crown, bridge, or denture) on top of it.
How Dental Implant Salvage Works
You should seek care as soon as you believe that there is a problem with one of your implants. The earlier you receive treatment, the more likely it is that you can avoid the need for extensive procedures.
When you come to see us, we will perform a thorough examination before we design a treatment plan. You might need something relatively simple, such as a new restoration, a course of antibiotics, or some changes to your oral hygiene routine. However, there is also the chance that we may need to completely remove the failing implant. After a healing period and possible bone graft for your jaw, you may be able to receive a new implant.