ONE OF MY DENTAL IMPLANTS IS LOOSE! WHAT SHOULD I DO?

Dental implants are one of the best ways to replace missing teeth. They are incredibly sturdy, they may last a lifetime, and they look like natural teeth. Plus, because they bond with the jawbone, they can help to prevent bone loss. However, as with any surgery, there are potential risks and complications. Sometimes dental implants in Lawrenceburg fail. Why does this happen, and what should you do if one of your implants feels loose or you think it is failing?

Why Implants Fail

A Swedish study that looked at thousands of dental implant cases found that 7.6 of people lost at least one of their implants within the first nine years after the surgery. 14.5 percent developed peri-implantitis that led to significant bone loss (peri-implantitis is an inflammatory disease that affects the tissues around an implant). 50 percent of people with implants had at least a mild form of peri-implantitis.

These statistics seem troubling, but it is worth noting that many of the patients who had problems with their implants had other risk factors. Smoking, for example, is a major reason why implants fail. Other factors that can decrease the chances that implants will last a long time include:

• There is poor supply to the area around the implant.
• The patient takes certain medications, such as those used to treat osteoporosis, that can affect implants.
• There were preexisting infections around the implant site.
• The implant moves or shifts after it is inserted.
• Teeth are attached to the implants too soon after the initial surgery.

What If You’re Having Problems With an Implant?

Your natural teeth are able to move slightly; this is because they’re attached to a stretchy ligament. Implants, on the other hand, should not be able to budge in the slightest. If one of your implants feels loose, make an appointment with your dentist.

It’s possible that the problem has nothing to do with the implant itself and everything to do with the artificial tooth that is attached to the implant; sometimes these crowns might get broken. Your dentist might simply need to repair or replace the crown to get your smile back to top form.

If the problem is related to the implant itself, it could be because it never properly integrated with your jawbone. When this happens, it usually occurs within the first year after surgery. If it has been more than a year, you might have an infection or gum disease that is affecting the tissue around the implant. If gum disease is the culprit and you catch it early on, it might be possible to save the implant.

Dental implants in Lawrenceburg can give you a strong, healthy smile. To prevent failure, be sure to make regular visits to your dentist so you can hold onto that gorgeous grin of yours.

About Our Practice

Dr. Brian C. Oyler and the rest of the team at Oyler Family Dentistry in Lawrenceburg are pleased to provide dental care to folks in the community. If you have questions or concerns about your implants, please call our office at 812-221-1014.