Your Dentist Explains What Causes Dental Implants to Fail

Dental implants have revolutionized dental care by providing patients a way to restore missing teeth in a secure and sturdy manner. The implant is surgically attached to the underlying jawbone and acts as a replacement for missing roots. The solid foundation created then allows for a restoration to be securely attached. For the procedure to be successful depends on certain things to be in place, and if they’re not, the implant can fail. Read on to learn what the contributing factors are and much more.

What Causes Dental Implants to Fail?

Here are some of the reasons that a dental implant can fail:

• Peri-Implantitis – One of the most common causes of implant failure is a condition called peri-implantitis, which is an infection that develops around the implant and in the gum tissue. It’s usually brought about by poor oral hygiene after the surgery has been completed.
• Bone Loss – Another contributor to implant failure is bone loss. It makes it hard for the implant to seat properly and integrate with the jawbone.
• Dental Trauma – Finally, sudden trauma can also cause the dental implant to fail prematurely. For example, a person who participates in sports runs the risk of taking a blow to the mouth. If unprotected, the impact could cause the implant to break and dislodge.

A Silver Lining

While there are contributors to dental implants failing, the reality is that the overall success rate of this procedure is 95% or better. What’s more noteworthy is that Dr. Kwon hasn’t had any failures. This can be attested to the shared responsibility established between the dentist and the patient.

The dentist has the duty to efficiently and correctly place the implant and then thoroughly explain the protocol for caring for it to the patient. The latter then has the responsibility to follow through with the instructions. The combination of these two components makes for a successful procedure.

If the Implant Fails, What Happens?

Any signs of an implant failure should be addressed immediately. Your dentist will evaluate the implant to find the source of the problem and will determine what the best course of action is to correct the issue.

Here are some of the possible solutions:

• Bone Graft – If the failure is the result of stress, then a bone graft may be required. It’s a procedure that involves removing bone cells from another area and inserting them in the jawbone to stimulate new growth.
• Thorough Cleaning – If peri-implantitis is the cause of the issue, then your dentist will thoroughly clear away the damaged tissue and clean the area.
• Restoration Replacement – In some cases, the damage involves the restoration and not the implant. Your dentist will provide you with a new crown to replace your damaged one using a seamless method.

Having your dental function restored is like having a new lease on life. With the help of Dr. Kwon and his staff at Kwon Dental, you’ll be able to enjoy your rejuvenated smile for years to come!

About the Author

Dr. Hodong Kwon earned his dental degree from State University of New York at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine. He then went on to complete his Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency, which included training in implant dentistry. Dr. Kwon successfully places and restores dental implants at Kwon Dental and can be reached for more information through his website.