Dental implants are the gold standard in tooth replacement. They offer patients a natural-looking artificial tooth that has a peak level of functionality. While they have a very high rate of success, sometimes dental implants can fail. And, it could be the result of a dental implant not integrating.
Let’s talk about what this means - and how to spot the signs.
Dental Implants: An Overview
To understand what can go wrong, it is important to understand how dental implants work. So, let’s take a quick look at how they come together. Before the procedure begins, steps are taken to make sure that you are a good candidate - having good bone density and other underlying factors are important. Once the dentist gives the green light, the process can commence.
The implant itself is a small titanium post (sometimes referred to as an artificial root) that is placed into the jaw bone and left for several weeks so that it may fuse together with the bone itself. Once it is ready, an abutment will be attached to the post and a dental crown will be attached to the top. In other words, the security of the entire dental implant depends on how strongly it is fused with the bone.
Why Dental Implants Fail
There are a couple of different reasons that may cause dental implants to fail. For instance, peri-implantitis is an infection that can impact the health of the implants. It happens when the area is not properly cared for during and after the surgery. Though, the most common reason for implants to fail is osseointegration.
Failed osseointegration occurs when the dental implant is not integrating with the jaw bone. Part of the process is that the bone will grow around the implant, fusing the two together. As a result, you have sturdy and strong support for tooth replacement. Unfortunately, when integration does not occur, it will not offer you what you need.
Osseointegration typically happens in the early stages after surgery.
Signs of a Failing Implant
If you are considering dental implants or you have invested in them, you may be wondering how to tell if your implant is failing - or going to fail. And while nobody wants to focus on the negative, it is important to have an idea of what to look for, just in case. That way, should you notice that something is off, you can have it addressed as soon as possible.
When the implant doesn’t integrate, one of the first things you will notice is the slight movement of the artificial tooth. It may be difficult to notice at first, but your dentist should be able to spot it upon examination. But if it is left unaddressed, it can become unstable and wobbly - especially when talking and eating.
Although rare, a few other signs that there may be trouble with the implant include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Infection
If you have any concerns about your dental implant, it is important to talk to your dentist. An evaluation and maybe even an x-ray will help to see just what is going on with the dental implant.
Get High-Quality Dental Implants at 508 Dentist
Getting dental implants from a highly-skilled, experienced dental team is the best way to ensure you have a successful outcome. And, that’s what you will find here at 508 Dentist.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at 508-336-8478. Or request an appointment online.