Dental implants are post-surgical metal insertions into the jaw to hold the tooth together after a replacement. The root of the tooth is supported by a metal screw-like post that holds the artificial tooth in place after the replacement of a broken or missing tooth.

While this procedure rarely experiences any problems, dental implant failures sometimes occur. It’s important to know the signs to expect so that you can get prompt help in the event of a failure. Some of the signs of dental implant failure include:

• Severe pain and discomfort
• Swelling of the gums
• Gum recession
• Chewing difficulties
• Loose or moving implant

Dental implants can fail due to the complications of the procedure or the patient’s carelessness. Here are some of the causes and prevention.

Misalignment

Dentists may have a hard time positioning the metal to align properly with the bone. If the implant fails to align properly with the bone, it will appear completely out of place and unnatural. It can result in gum recession and the implant being visible around the gums.

Correcting a misalignment is not easy and may cause more damage than it is worth. To avoid this, always choose an experienced dentist who can get it right on the first try. Working with an experienced dentist ensures proper alignment before implantation to avoid failure.

Impressions Misfit

The dentists take the impressions to the lab for molding and making crowns. The impressions must be precise and accurate to fit correctly on the jaw. However, this is not always the case because there can be a misfit causing a gap between the gums and the teeth. This can cause infections and may need immediate replacement.

The only way to avoid such problems is to work with a dentist who understands how to properly measure and mold the impressions. They must be relaxed and comfortable when performing the procedure under high magnification.

Infections

Infections, or peri-implantitis, are one of the reasons for dental implant failures. When a foreign body invades the oral cavity before the patient can heal from the procedure, it can cause an infection. This can result in inflammation, bone loss, and implant failure.

While an infection can be treated, it interferes with the healing process and can be costly.  It’s important to protect the gums from the bacteria that cause this infection. Maintain good oral hygiene and refrain from smoking to protect yourself from infections after a dental implant.

Allergic Reaction

Some patients experience allergic reactions after the implant, causing it to fail. Some medications used during the procedure can also negatively affect your body. Other times, it can be your body rejecting the foreign substance.

To prevent this, your dentist should perform various tests and pre-treatment procedures to determine whether your body can accept the implant treatment. They should rule out any allergies to the medication used during implants before proceeding. Inform your doctor about your allergies and health conditions so that they can use the right materials.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Poor oral hygiene is one of the mistakes made by patients that might cause the implant to fail. Poor hygiene can invite bacteria into the mouth, causing an infection. Once the area is infected or invaded with foreign substances, the implant is bound to fail.

Take good care of oral hygiene before and after the implant to improve its success rate. Make sure you brush and floss properly to avoid buildup and bacteria growth.

Skipping Checkup Sessions

Your doctor must monitor your implant for a given period of time to ensure it fits correctly and heals as expected. However, many patients feel like they’re already healed and may skip the appointments. With missed checkup appointments, you may not realize on time if there’s a problem.

Checkup sessions are important to ensure the implants are not harming the mouth. You can get prompt treatment for pain or infection before it interferes with the implantation procedure.

The success of your dental implants will help you heal faster and return to your daily routine. Our dentists are experienced in dental implant procedures and will ensure everything turns out perfectly. 

Speak with us about all your implant worries, and let’s explain everything you need to know. Harmony Dental of Burbank is just a phone call away. Book your dental implant appointment today.