Understanding and Preventing Dental Implants from Failing

Dental implants in Danville are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. However, like any surgical procedure, there are potential complications. Failed dental implants refer to implants that have not successfully integrated with the jawbone or have become loose or infected over time. These failures can occur soon after the implant surgery or even years later.

Common Causes of Failed Dental Implants

1. Inadequate Bone Support

For an implant to be successful, it requires sufficient bone in the jaw to support it. Inadequate bone support or bone loss after implant placement can lead to implant failure.

2. Infection or Peri-Implantitis

Infections around the implant site, known as peri-implantitis, can cause inflammation and damage the surrounding tissue, leading to implant failure.

3. Overloading the Implant

Applying excessive force on the implant before it fully integrates with the jawbone can lead to overloading. Overloading often happens when the dental implant is subject to early or excessive pressure.

4. Poor Oral Hygiene

Lack of proper oral hygiene leads to plaque accumulation around the implant, increasing the risk of infection and implant failure.

5. Failed Osseointegration

Osseointegration is the process where the implant bonds with the jawbone. When this process fails, the implant does not become stable, leading to failure.

6. Uncontrolled Systemic Diseases

Systemic diseases like diabetes can affect the body’s ability to heal and adapt to the implant, increasing the risk of failure.

7. Poor Surgical Technique

Errors during surgery or improper implant placement can also contribute to its failure.

Symptoms of a Failing Dental Implant

Recognizing the symptoms of a failed dental implant can help you seek timely intervention. Here are some signs to watch out for:

• Persistent and increasing pain around the implant site.
• Implant mobility or a feeling of looseness in the implant.
• Swelling, redness, or excessive heat around the implant area indicates potential infection.
• Difficulty or discomfort when chewing or biting.
• Unusual or foul taste or smell coming from the implant site.
• Visible or palpable changes in the gum tissue around the implant.

Treatment Offered For Failed Dental Implants

If you suspect a failed dental implant, seeking treatment from a qualified professional is crucial. At Diablo Valley Implant Dentistry, our ABOI board-certified dental implant surgeon and oral surgeon in Danville has the experience to diagnose and treat dental implant complications. Treatment options may include:

• Removing the failed implant and allowing the site to heal.
• Addressing any infections or underlying health conditions.
• A bone graft ensures adequate support for a new implant.
• Plan and place a new implant once the site is healthy and ready.

Tips for Preventing Failed Dental Implants

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to reduce the risk of implant failure:

Choose a Qualified Implant Dentist

Ensure you select a qualified and experienced implant dentist for proper treatment planning and execution.

Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene

Adequate oral hygiene habits can reduce the risk of peri-implantitis and infection.

Follow Post-Implant Care Instructions

Adhere to your dentist’s post-implant care instructions, including dietary advice and oral hygiene practices.

Avoid Harmful Habits

Smoking or excessive alcohol consumption may impairs the dental implant healing process.

Control Systemic Health Conditions

Ensure systemic conditions like diabetes are well-controlled before undergoing implant surgery.

Regular Dental Check-ups

Visit your general dentist regularly to monitor the health of your implants and oral tissues.

Failing dental implants can be distressing, but you can minimize the risks with the proper knowledge and preventive care. By following preventive dentistry techniques, you can enhance the longevity of your dental implants. If you are experiencing any symptoms of implant failure or need expert advice, don’t hesitate to contact Diablo Valley Implant Dentistry.

Schedule A Dental Implant Consultation

If you have a failing dental implant in Danville, we encourage you to call our ABOI board certified dental implant surgeon, Dr. Anthony Lizano at (925) 838-1109 to schedule a dental implant consultation. Our oral surgeon at Diablo Valley Implant Dentistry performs dental implant surgery for patients throughout the East Bay including, Danville, Walnut Creek, Alamo, and San Ramon.