If you’ve recently had a dental implant procedure, you know how much it can benefit your life. Dental implants are an excellent tooth loss solution, providing patients with a stable and attractive smile restoration. One of the biggest benefits of dental implants is their incredibly low failure rate. However, just because the odds are low, doesn’t mean it can’t happen.
But how will you know? Read on to learn the signs of dental implant failure so you can take preventive action if the need arises.
Tooth Mobility
The most obvious sign of a failing dental implant is a wiggly or mobile prosthetic. Healthy dental implants should feel stable and secure in the mouth. If you notice any movement or mobility of the implant, it could be a sign of implant failure. Implant mobility may indicate inadequate osseointegration, implant fracture, or other complications that require immediate attention.
Swelling and Inflammation
Swelling and inflammation around the gums near the dental implant are some of the more noticeable signs of possible dental implant failure. Inflammation may be accompanied by redness, tenderness, or warmth in the affected area. This could signify peri-implantitis, an inflammatory condition caused by a buildup of food particles around the implant.
Pain or Discomfort
Persistent pain or discomfort around the dental implant site could be a sign of implant failure. There may be throbbing, aching, or sharp pain which are indicators of issues like infection, nerve damage, or implant loosening. Over-the-counter pain medication can help in the short term, but you should seek your dentist as soon as possible.
Gum Recession
Gum recession around the dental implant can expose the implant’s attachment point, the abutment. This exposes the implant to more bacteria which can cause an infection leading to implant failure. Gum recession often occurs due to aggressive brushing but may also happen due to improper implant placement.
If you experience any of these signs or symptoms associated with dental implant failure, it’s important to contact your dentist. While these signs aren’t an absolute certainty that your dental implants are failing, early detection can protect your investment. In a case like this, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Your dentist can help you address issues and keep your implants healthy and strong.
About the Author
If you need a skilled and knowledgeable dentist to place your dental implants, Dr. George A. Hoop at Total Dental Solutions for Adults has the technology and the know-how. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the Emory University School of Dentistry. Since then, he has continued to expand his knowledge through the most prestigious schools in the world like the Pikos Institute. Call (239) 939-7299 to schedule a dental implant consultation or visit the website to learn more.