Dental implants in Waverly are one of the best restorative options for replacing your teeth. They’re stable, long-lasting, and look and feel like your natural teeth. They offer more than just surface-level benefits though, they can have a huge positive impact on your oral health by preventing bone loss. However, like any surgical procedure, there are risks and complications that could happen. Your dental implants could fail, but why does this happen? What should you do if they feel loose? Read on to get your questions about dental implant failures answered and put your mind to rest.
Why Would Your Implants Fail?
Research conducted by the University of Gothenburg found that 7.6% of 4,700 patients involved in the study lost at least one implant within 9 years of their surgery. 14.5% developed peri-implantitis, a disease that affects oral tissues, and suffered significant bone loss. While this research may be cause for concern, keep in mind that several people involved in the study were partaking in risk-causing factors like smoking.
Other factors that can decrease the chances that your implants will be successful include:
- Your implants shifting after they’re inserted.
- The presence of preexisting oral infections.
- Taking certain medications, like ones to treat osteoporosis.
- There is poor blood supply in the implant area, making it harder for your gums to heal.
While some factors are preventable, others are not, so it’s important to keep a lookout for signs that may signify failing implants so you can treat it immediately.
How Can You Tell if Your Implants Are Failing?
Dental implant failure can happen any time after your surgery. When your bone doesn’t grow properly after the procedure, you can often tell by the mobility of the implant. Your dentist may be the only person who is able to recognize this, but over time, it can feel unstable when you’re chewing or talking.
Some other signs of failure can include pain, swelling, and infection. When you check in with your dentist, they may notice that your implant is shifting or wobbly and order an X-ray to tell if you’re suffering from bone loss—a clear sign of failing dental implants.
What Should You Do If You’re Having Problems with Your Implants?
Your implants should not shift in your mouth at all, so if they feel like they are, schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately. If what you’re experiencing is related to the implant, it could be because it never bonded the way it was supposed to with your jaw bone. This problem typically happens after the first year of surgery. If it happens later than that, your issues could be a result of infection or gum disease.
If you feel like your implants are loose in the slightest, or notice signs of other oral health problems, schedule an appointment with your dentist. They’ll be able to put your mind to rest and formulate the best treatment plan for you. Dental implants have countless benefits to offer you, but those won’t make a difference if you’re not taking the necessary steps to care for them. Seeing your dentist for your semi-annual checkups and cleanings can be a safeguard for protecting your oral health and identifying any possible issues before they progress.
About the Author
Dr. Jonathan Smiley takes pride in developing trusting and long-lasting relationships with each of his patients. He strives to provide them with the knowledge and individualized treatment they need to help maintain a bright and healthy smile. He is an active member of the American Dental Association, the Iowa Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. For any questions or to schedule an appointment, visit Smiley Family Dentistry’s website or contact 319-352-2270.