How does a dentist fix a failed implant? Options Explored

Facing a failed dental implant can be unsettling. Many wonder, "How does a dentist fix a failed implant?" Thankfully, there are solutions for failed implants, which are more common than you might think. This article explores causes, treatments, and what to expect when an implant fails.

Dental implants generally have high success rates—between 90% and 95% over a decade. Sometimes, they don't integrate as planned, causing implant failure. How a dentist addresses this depends on several factors, including the cause and timing of the failure.

Understanding Dental Implant Failure

• Understanding Dental Implant Failure
  • Early Implant Failure
  • Late Implant Failure
• How Does a Dentist Fix a Failed Implant: Treatment Options
  • Replacing the Failed Dental Implant
  • Alternative Options
• Conclusion

Understanding Dental Implant Failure

Dental implant failure falls into two categories: early and late. Early failure happens soon after placement. Late failure occurs after osseointegration, the fusion of the implant and jawbone.

Early Implant Failure

Early implant failure often stems from factors like smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, and infection. Other risk factors for dental implant failure early are insufficient bone density or implant-related problems. These implant-related issues can include materials, surface texture, or poor surgical placement.

The International Congress of Oral Implantologists notes these implant characteristics can influence early failure. An article in BioMed Central Oral Health discusses potential complications with short dental implants. This type of early implant failure can happen after receiving bone grafts with implants under 10mm. Short-term dental implants are more common now with improvements and advancements within dentistry today.

If a dental implant fails early, the dentist removes it. After a healing period, they reevaluate underlying health concerns. They address lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, and bone density. If a bone graft was used, it may have less support for a second attempt. Adequate bone support is crucial before re-implantation. Alternatives to implants may also be considered.

Late Implant Failure

Late dental implant failure often involves loose components or an infection called peri-implantitis. This infection can arise despite initial implant success. Loose components might result from excessive chewing pressure, teeth grinding (bruxism), pre-existing gum or bone issues, low-quality implants, or simply the breakdown of implant materials over time.

An ill-fitting prosthetic is another possible reason for failing implants. Your dental surgeon addresses these issues. They find a long-term solution without constant adjustments.

The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) recommends improvements for patients with partial dentures. Improved brushing habits are necessary, as are deep cleanings, x-rays of implant placement, and antibiotic courses. Surgical repairs may be required as well. Peri-implantitis needs bacterial removal as a first priority.

How Does a Dentist Fix a Failed Implant: Treatment Options

Once the failed implant is removed, any underlying issues are treated. Gum disease or insufficient bone density are underlying issues which a patient would need to address before re-implantation. A healing period follows, along with optional bone grafting at the implant site to support a new implant with more stability and to help address tooth loss concerns in that specific location.

This adds healing time. The dental team will help determine the next best steps based on oral hygiene and recommended lifestyle changes.

Replacing the Failed Dental Implant

A new implant is often placed in the same spot as the original. A study from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) discusses implant placement timelines. Even when a dental implant fails early on in treatment, placement can occur at the original implant site without a longer wait.

There are several additional considerations. Damaged implant parts need to be removed. The site needs proper preparation. A larger implant fixture is preferred to increase anchoring and to make sure that there is enough bone.

Replacing the implant doesn't always work. Overall health conditions and additional medical issues must be evaluated. Uncontrolled diseases like diabetes, bone-related issues, and the presence of second molars can impact treatment.

Some medications, such as antidepressants and long-term cancer treatments, impact recovery. Other implant-related issues include peri-implantitis (gum inflammation), bruxism, and bone loss. The quality and density of prior bone grafts are important factors.

Alternative Options

Several tooth replacement solutions exist if dental implants fail. Dentures and bridges are common options. Implants can modify dentures, giving additional support. Your experienced dental implant dentist will discuss alternative tooth replacement options.

They will help you find the most suitable option given your unique circumstances. Each tooth replacement option comes with varying permanence and care requirements. The surgical team will explain the removal, cleaning, and placement process, along with recovery.

Conclusion

So, how does a dentist fix a failed implant? They first assess why the implant failed. Treatments range from implant replacement at the same site to fixed or removable dentures. Sometimes, existing options are reinforced to offer additional support.

There are additional considerations if the initial bone graft had low quality, quantity, or density. Poor gum and bone health or medical issues affecting healing will require additional discussion of how dentists fix failed implants. Treatment depends on your overall circumstances. Additional treatment for tooth loss from accidents can happen at the same time. Long-term treatment options vary from tooth extractions to multiple extractions in more difficult cases, all depending on your specific scenario.

A thorough evaluation helps your dentist find the most suitable solution, prioritizing your oral and overall well-being. Most patients have several permanent solutions to improve their smiles. It starts with a skilled and knowledgeable oral health team. Your choices will likely improve your chances of great, long-lasting results. Dental implant surgery remains highly predictable today.

Your health is the priority with all treatment options. Consult an experienced dental professional in your area for peace of mind. Find out if their experience includes dental implant surgery as that impacts which treatments they specialize in for patients that come through for wisdom teeth removal, teeth whitening, a root canal, or something similar. Local considerations and legal implications can impact your choice. Talk through all options and complications.