5 Reasons Why Dental Implants Fail and How to Fix Them

Losing one’s teeth is a traumatic event. It not only impedes physical function but can also deal a major blow to one’s self-esteem. How exhilarating it is, then, to find a remedy that restores one’s ability to eat the foods that he or she loves, speak clearly and smile with confidence. The most efficient method that has been developed to deliver such results is the dental implant procedure, offering stability, durability and longevity. But like anything else in life, implants can fail. Learn from your dentist what some of the reasons are and how they can be fixed.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants offer a remedy for loss teeth by replacing their roots. They are posts made from titanium that are surgically inserted into the jawbone and allowed to fuse with it. This is able to occur because they are biocompatible with the body’s cellular structure, which is also one of the reasons that implants provide such great stability.

After the healing and fusing, either crowns, bridges or implant-retained prosthetics are attached. The patient can then go on with his or her life as normal, including oral hygiene practices and other daily activities like eating, talking and smiling with confidence.

5 Reasons Implants Fail

Although the dental implant process delivers amazing results, it still can fail. Here are some of the reasons why:

• Insufficient Bone Structure – One of the requirements for a successful dental implant procedure is to have a sufficient amount of healthy bone available. If not present, the implants won’t remain fixed in place.
• Smoking and Tobacco Use – The mouth needs oxygen to maintain an optimal state of health. When one smokes and uses tobacco, it limits the flow of this vital element and thus hinders one’s ability to heal, which can cause the dental implant to fail.
• Tooth Decay – Failure to practice proper oral hygiene will allow for new bacteria growth and lead to tooth decay if not addressed. This can also cause infection and implant failure.
• Grinding Teeth – Grinding one’s teeth results in unusual wear, shifting and improper pressure, causing the implant to unseat.
• Poor Overall Health – A person with poor overall health has a greater chance of the implant failing because all the parts of the human body are integrated into one network that respond to each other.

How to Fix Failed Implants

The first step to repairing a failed dental implant is to contact an implant dentist. He or she will make a diagnosis of the reason for the failure and then design the necessary course of action.

The main thing to keep in mind is that when there are such signs as movement or pain associated with the implant, it should be examined immediately to allow for the least invasive and complicated method to rectify it.

Then the patient can get on with his or her life, enjoying a great smile and the full function of perfect teeth.

About the Author

Dr. Steven Stec received his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Nebraska and then went on to earn his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Nebraska Medical College of Dentistry. A member of the American Dental Association and several other professional organizations, Dr. Stec practices at Stec Cosmetic & Family Dentistry and can be reached for more information through his website.