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Dental Implant Failure & Salvage – Zionsville, IN
Salvaging Your
Restored Smile
Ultimately, dental implant failure is extremely rare. But it’s still good to be familiar with the signs of potential failure so you can get the care you need. Should your restoration fail for any reason, our team will be ready to take action and provide assistance!
Why Do Dental Implants Fail?
Dental implants can fail for a couple of different reasons, not all of which are predictable or easily detectable. For example:
- Peri-implantitis is when gum disease bacteria infect the tissue (and sometimes the bone) around the implant post, weakening its support.
- Improper osseointegration can prevent the implant post from fusing with the jawbone as it should.
- A hard physical impact can dislodge or disturb a dental implant like it could for natural teeth.
- Some medical conditions (like cancer or bone loss) can make it more difficult for the body to provide sufficient implant support.
Symptoms of a Failed Dental Implant
Dental implant failure can occur shortly after initial placement or several years after. As such, you should always take the following symptoms seriously:
- Severe pain or pain that persists for longer than your expected recovery time.
- A wiggly or loose implant.
- Bleeding, swelling, pus, fever, and other potential signs of infection.
- Chewing discomfort or difficulties.
How Dental Implant Salvage Works
When you arrive for your emergency dental appointment, we’ll perform a thorough oral exam to get a better understanding of the underlying problem. In the case of infection, we might be able to save your restoration with a scaling and root planing treatment. If the dental implant itself is damaged, we can often make effective repairs or arrange for a replacement. If the issue lies with your jawbone, we will most likely have to remove the implant entirely, but may be able to place it again after a bone graft. No matter the situation, we’ll carefully review your treatment options with you so there are no surprises!