Recognizing Signs of Dental Implant Failure

Reviewed by Dr. Kerri Font, DDS

So far, in our series, we have discussed the benefits of dental implants and provided a step-by-step explanation of the procedure. This blog will cover an important topic: dental implant failure.Although dental implants have a high success rate, there is a chance that the implants can fail. Our goal is to provide you with the information you need to prevent dental implant failure. This blog will discuss signs to look out for and how to prevent it from happening in the first place.

Table of Contents

What is Dental Implant Failure?

Dental implant failure occurs when an implant does not successfully osseointegrate or fuse with the jaw bone. Failure can happen during healing or even months or years after the surgery. In some cases, only one implant may fail, while in other cases, multiple implants may fail.

Why Do Implants Fail?

There are several reasons why an implant may fail. These include:

  • Poor oral hygiene: Poor oral hygiene can lead to plaque buildup around the implant.  This build up can cause gum disease, which can lead to implant failure.
  • Infection:  An infection can develop at the surgical site, causing inflammation and preventing proper healing.
  • Smoking: Smoking can impair healing and reduce the success rate of implants.
  • Bone quality: Adequate bone density is necessary to support an implant. Patients with compromised bone structure may have increased risk.
  • Health conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, can affect healing and increase the risk of failure.
  • Improper placement: If the implant is not placed correctly, it may not integrate properly with the bone.

Signs of Dental Implant Failure

While dental implants typically have a high success rate, they can fail. Here are some signs to watch out for that could signal dental implant failure:

  • Persistent pain or discomfort: Some discomfort is expected after the placement of an implant. If the pain persists or worsens, it could be a sign of complications.
  • Difficulty chewing or biting: Implants are designed to function like your natural teeth. If biting or chewing becomes difficult or painful, this could indicate implant failure.
  • Swelling, redness, or inflammation: Excessive swelling, persistent redness, or inflammation of the gums around the implant might suggest infection or other issues.
  • Loose or wobbly implant: An implant should be as stable as a natural tooth once healed. An implant that feels loose could be failing.

The Impact of Smoking on Dental Implants

Smoking has proven to have several adverse effects on dental implants, including:

  • Delayed healing: Nicotine constricts blood vessels, which can impede the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure.
  • Reduced bone density: Smoking can reduce bone density, making it more difficult for the implant to integrate with the jawbone.
  • Increased risk of infection: Smokers have a higher risk of developing peri-implantitis, a severe infection that can lead to implant failure.
  • Higher failure rate: Studies have shown that smokers have a significantly higher rate of implant failure compared to non-smokers.

Studies have shown that “implants placed in smokers present a 140.2% higher risk of failure than implants placed in non-smokers.”

How to Prevent Dental Implant Failure

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of implant failure and ensure the success of your dental implants. These include:

  • Maintain good oral hygiene: Dental implants require the same diligent oral hygiene routine as natural teeth. Although the implant itself is not affected by plaque and tartar,  the surrounding gums can become infected, leading to implant failure.
  • Quit smoking: Quitting smoking altogether is the best way to ensure the success of your implants and improve overall oral health. Before you commit to getting dental implants, we strongly recommend that you quit smoking before you begin the process. Since it is a significant investment, you want to ensure that your dental implants last as long as possible, and quitting smoking is the best way to ensure this.
  • Follow aftercare instructions: Your periodontist will provide post-op instructions for proper care of your implant site. It’s essential to follow these guidelines carefully.
  • Regular dental visits: Regular check-ups with your dentist and periodontist are vital for monitoring the health of your implants and addressing any potential issues early on. Don’t skip appointments!
  • Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods: To prevent damage to your implants, avoid chewing on ice, hard candies, or other hard and sticky foods that could put excessive pressure on them.
  • Use a mouthguard: If you participate in high-risk activities like sports, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your implants from damage.
  • Monitor your diet: A healthy diet can contribute to your overall and oral health and keep your implants strong. Avoid sugary or acidic foods and drinks that can cause decay.
  • Choose a skilled periodontist: As mentioned earlier, proper placement of dental implants is essential for their long-term success. So make sure to choose an experienced and skilled periodontist for your implant surgery.

Why Choose Us?

Choosing the right periodontist for dental implant surgery is critical. Here are 6 reasons why Dr. Mike Norouzinia, DDS, and Dr. Kerri Font, DDS, should be at the top of your list:

  • Expertise & qualifications: Dr. Norouzinia and Dr. Font are highly qualified in the field of periodontics. They remain ahead of their field through continuous professional development and training in the latest dental implant technologies and techniques.
  • Personalized care: They understand that each patient is unique, and they commit to personalized care plans designed to meet the needs of each patient.
  • Cutting-edge technology: Our office is equipped with state-of-the-art dental technology, ensuring you receive the most advanced care possible, promoting accuracy and reducing healing time.
  • Proven track record: They have a proven success rate with numerous satisfied patients who can attest to their expertise. Their dedication to excellence is reflected in their outcomes and the long-term stable relationships they build with patients.
  • Compassionate approach: Beyond their technical skills, Dr. Norouzinia and Dr. Font are known for their compassionate care and understanding, ensuring patients feel comfortable and at ease throughout their dental implant journey.
  • Comprehensive aftercare: Their comprehensive follow-up and aftercare regimens ensure the highest chances of implant success and patient satisfaction post-surgery.

Entrusting your smile to Dr. Mike Norouzinia, DDS, and Dr. Kerri Font, DDS, means choosing peace of mind, knowing that highly skilled, compassionate practitioners are caring for your dental health.

Dental Implants in Highlands Ranch, CO

If you are searching for ‘dental implants in Highlands Ranch’ or a ‘dental implant periodontist near me,’ we can help! To book a dental implant consultation with Dr. Mike Norouzinia or Dr. Kerri Font, call (303) 683-1144 or complete the online booking form. We look forward to meeting you!

Stay tuned for the next blog in our series, Revolutionizing Full Arch Replacement with Bone Grafting and All-on-4 Dental Implants. In the meantime, browse our blog to learn more about dental implants and other periodontal services offered at Highlands Ranch Periodontics & Implant Center.

Categories: Periodontics