Dental implants have an impressive success rate of 95–98%, making them one of the most reliable solutions for tooth replacement. However, in rare cases where a dental implant fails, it’s essential to understand what might affect your treatment options.
Here’s a breakdown of what happens if an implant fails and how it can be addressed.
Repair or Replace a Failed Dental Implant?
If a dental implant becomes damaged or doesn’t function properly, your oral surgeon will determine whether it should be repaired or replaced.
Sometimes, the failure may not directly involve the implant itself but could stem from other factors like gum or bone health.
Consulting a skilled oral surgeon early can reduce the risk of implant failure and ensure the best possible treatment plan.
Causes and Treatments of Implant Failure
The treatment for a failed implant depends on the cause and timing of the failure.
Typically, your surgeon will evaluate the implant, assess the health of your gums and jawbone, and allow the area to heal before proceeding with further treatment.
Failures are generally categorized as:
- Early Failure: Occurs shortly after the procedure when the implant fails to integrate with the jawbone.
- Late Failure: Happens after successful integration but is caused by other issues like infection or mechanical damage.
Early or Short-Term Implant Failure
When the jawbone and implant do not fuse properly, it’s considered an early failure. Common causes include:
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Smoking
- Low bone volume
- Implant material or placement
A comprehensive evaluation with 3D imaging will help your surgeon develop a treatment plan.
In some cases, bone grafting or implant replacement may be required.
Factors Contributing to Early Failure
Factors such as implant material, surface texture, and position can impact success.
Studies also show a higher risk of failure in patients who received bone grafting or implants shorter than 10mm.
Partnering with an experienced oral surgeon significantly minimizes these risks.
Late or Long-Term Implant Failure
Long-term implant failure occurs after the implant has successfully fused with the jawbone but is later compromised. This can result from:
- Broken or Loose Screws: Excessive pressure from teeth grinding or poorly positioned crowns can lead to mechanical issues. Regular dental maintenance is crucial to detecting and addressing these problems early.
- Peri-Implant Disease: Chronic gum inflammation or infection can jeopardize the surrounding bone and implant. Smoking, poor oral hygiene, and certain medical conditions increase the risk.
Treating Peri-Implant Disease
If detected early, peri-implant disease may be treated with:
- Improved oral hygiene
- Antibiotics
- Regular dental cleanings
- Surgical intervention
In severe cases, treatment may involve implant removal, bone grafting, and eventual replacement.
Overall Insight
Dental implant failure, however uncommon, can still occur. They might be categorized as early or long term failure. While the causes might vary from improper positioning, implant material, broken loose screws, or peri-implant disease, our implant specialists at Pasadena Oral Surgery will help find the root cause and treat it accordingly.
While it is completely possible to reverse the effects of implant failure, it might not always be possible.
If you suspect a similar condition, book a consultation at (281) 299-0053.