Dental implant procedures have revolutionised modern dentistry and have become popular options for patients looking to replace missing or damaged teeth due to tooth loss. These artificial tooth roots are made of biocompatible materials such as titanium and are surgically placed into the jaw bone and function like natural teeth. Unfortunately, dental implant failure is a reality that some patients face every year, and it’s important to understand why to prevent it from happening.
This article will cover the leading causes of dental implant failure and what you should do (and not do) to maintain and keep your implants healthy.
Contents
- 1 Summary of the Content
- 2 What Are Dental Implants, and Can They Fail?
- 3 Understanding the Common Causes of Dental Implant Failure
- 4 Can Dental Implants Fail After Many Years?
- 5 What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Dental Implant Failures?
- 6 How Is a Failed Dental Implant Remedied?
- 7 What Are Some Risk Factors For Dental Implant Failures?
- 8 How To Properly Care For And Maintain a Dental Implant
- 9 Final Thoughts
Summary of the Content
- Dental implants are a safe and efficient tooth replacement option.
- Various factors, including poor bone quality, infection, and implant overload, can cause dental implant failure.
- Symptoms of dental implant failure include pain, swelling, mobility, and gum recession.
- Treatment for dental implant failure depends on the cause and severity of the problem.
- Risk factors for dental implant failure include poor oral hygiene, smoking, medical conditions, gum disease, insufficient bone density, overloading, poor implant placement, trauma, and age.
- Proper care and maintenance are essential for the longevity of your dental implant.
What Are Dental Implants, and Can They Fail?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of biocompatible materials, typically titanium, that are used to replace missing or damaged teeth. The metal implant post is surgically placed into the jaw bone to support a replacement tooth or a dental prosthesis such as a bridge or denture.
Although dental implants have a high success rate, they can sometimes fail. Based on studies, the overall dental implant success rate is up to 98%; however, the failure rate can vary depending on various factors, such as the patient’s overall health, the implant’s location in the mouth, and bone health. Some leading causes of a failed dental implant include poor oral hygiene, implant overload, implant fracture, infection, and poor bone quality.
Understanding the Common Causes of Dental Implant Failure
Dental implants have become an increasingly popular option for replacing missing teeth. However, like any surgical procedure, dental implant surgery carries risks; sometimes, the implant may fail. Some of the most common causes of a failed dental implant include the following:
- Poor oral hygiene:
When a patient fails to prioritise a good oral hygiene routine, plaque and bacteria quickly build up and cause tartar accumulation around the implants – potentially leading to gingivitis and may cause failure in the dental implant. - Occlusal overload:
Occlusal overload occurs when too much pressure is placed on the implant. This can happen due to two possible reasons: excessive biting forces or an implant’s placement is too small for the area it is meant to support. Over time, this can lead to the implant becoming loose, fractured, or even failing. - Implant fracture:
Implant fracture can occur for various reasons, such as implant overload, trauma, or manufacturing defects. This can lead to dental implant failure by compromising the implant’s stability and potentially damaging the surrounding tissues. - Infection:
This is one of the common causes of dental implant failure because it can destroy the bone and tissues surrounding the implant, which are essential for its stability and long-term success. - Inexperienced dentist:
If a dentist is inexperienced or does not utilise treatment planning, they may be unable to place the implant correctly or use appropriate materials, leading to implant failure. - Poor bone quality:
If the bone quality is poor, it may not be strong enough to support the implant or fuse correctly.
Can Dental Implants Fail After Many Years?
Yes, dental implants can fail after many years. While dental implants have a high success rate, they are not completely immune to complications or failures. The lifespan of a dental implant depends on various factors, including the patient’s oral hygiene habits, overall health, and the quality of the implant placement. While some implants can last a lifetime, others may need replacement approximately after 20 years.
After many years, factors contributing to dental implant failure may include infection, bone loss, and mechanical failure. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene, and following the dentist’s aftercare instructions can help prevent dental implant failure and prolong the implant’s lifespan. If a dental implant fails after many years, replacing it with a new implant is often possible, restoring the patient’s smile and dental health.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Dental Implant Failures?
A failed dental implant is relatively rare, but there are signs and symptoms to look out for, which could indicate that the implant is failing. Some of the common signs and symptoms of dental implant failure include:
- Pain or discomfort:
Severe pain or discomfort around the implant site may indicate that the implant is failing. - Mobility or looseness:
If your dental implant can be moved or feels loose, then Osseointegration has likely failed – a condition referred to as a ‘loose implant.’ - Swelling or inflammation:
If the implant site becomes swollen or inflamed, this could be a sign of infection or another issue. - Gum recession:
Receding gums around the implant may indicate that the bone and tissue surrounding the implant are deteriorating. - Persistent bad breath:
Chronic bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth may indicate an infection around the implant. - X-ray changes:
Changes in the appearance of the bone around the implant on an x-ray may indicate that the implant is failing.
How Is a Failed Dental Implant Remedied?
If a tooth implant has failed, the appropriate remedy will depend on the cause of failure and the damage’s extent. In some cases, the dentist will suggest treatment options that aim to salvage the implant.
The following are some of the common ways to remedy a failed dental implant:
- Removing the implant:
If the implant is loose, infected, or not integrating with the bone, it may need to be removed. - Bone grafting:
If there is not enough bone to support a new implant, bone graft procedures may be required to rebuild the bone. - Gum grafting:
A gum graft may be necessary if there is insufficient gum tissue to support the implant. - Managing infection:
If an infection is present, antibiotics or other treatments may be necessary to reduce the infection risk before a new implant can be placed. - Replacing the implant:
Once the cause of failure has been addressed, a new implant can be placed to restore the patient’s smile and oral function.
The exact remedy for a failed dental implant will depend on the individual case and should be determined by a qualified dentist. To avoid future implant failure, patients should follow good oral hygiene practices.
What Are Some Risk Factors For Dental Implant Failures?
It is crucial to know the risk factors that can impact the long-term success of a dental implant so that you can be more prepared in case of any unforeseen complications.
- Smoking:
Cigarette smoke can harm the wound healing process after surgery. The carbon monoxide produced by smoking has a higher affinity for hemoglobin, decreasing the amount of oxygen that reaches healing tissues. It is also linked to the risk of periodontal disease. - Bone quality:
Insufficient bone density or poor bone quality can make it difficult for the implant to integrate with the bone properly, leading to implant failure. - Failure of Osseointegration:
Osseointegration occurs when the titanium implant fuses to the bone, forming a strong interface that supports a crown, bridge, or denture. - Improper implant placement:
Refers to the situation where the implant is not correctly positioned in the jaw bone during the placement procedure. It can result in implant failure due to poor bone growth or instability. - Medical conditions:
Health factors such as diabetes, osteoporosis, and autoimmune disease can affect the success of dental implants. - Peri-Implantitis:
Also known as Peri-implant disease, it is a form of gum disease that can cause subsequent bone loss, inflammation, and gum recession.
How To Properly Care For And Maintain a Dental Implant
Proper care and maintenance are essential to maintain a dental implant’s long-term success and healthy teeth. Here are some tips on how to care for and maintain a dental implant:
- Practise good dental hygiene:
Brush twice daily and floss daily to reduce the risk of infection after dental implant therapy. - Use a soft-bristled toothbrush:
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging the implant and surrounding tissues. - Use a non-abrasive toothpaste:
Use a non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the implant surface. - Use an antibacterial mouthwash:
Use an antibacterial rinse to help reduce the risk of infection. - Avoid smoking:
Smoking Tobacco products can impair healing and increase the risk of implant failure. It is recommended to quit smoking altogether. - Visit the dentist regularly:
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help identify any issues with the implant and surrounding tissues before they become serious problems. - Avoid hard and sticky foods:
Avoid hard and sticky foods that can damage the implant or surrounding tissues. - Wear a mouthguard:
/> If you participate in contact sports, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and implant from trauma. - Follow post-operative instructions:
Following the guidelines laid out by your dentist is essential. This may involve taking prescribed medications and refraining from certain activities as instructed.
Final Thoughts
Proper maintenance and aftercare are crucial for avoiding dental implant failures. While dental implant treatments are a safe and efficient tooth replacement option, they require proper care and maintenance to maintain long-term success and good outcomes. Good oral hygiene includes brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash, which can help prevent bacterial infection around the implant site. Additionally, avoiding smoking, visiting the dentist regularly, and following any post-operative instructions provided by your dentist can help identify and reduce the implant failure rate.
If you’re considering dental implants as a solution for missing teeth or other dental issues, Absolute Smiles Bassendean is here to help. With modern technology and skilled dental professionals, dental implants have become a safe and effective option for many people. Don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back from achieving a healthy, beautiful smile. Contact Absolute Smiles Bassendean today to discuss your options and take the first step towards a confident and comfortable life with dental implants.