Dental implants are a revolutionary restorative treatment. By placing the implant into the jawbone, you are restoring not only the appearance of a missing tooth but its function, too. The artificial tooth will look, feel, and function just like a natural one.
While implants have a high success rate, there are times when they may fail. It's crucial to recognize the signs of dental implant failure so that you can address the issue promptly.
Here's what you need to know.
Get in touch with your dentist in Cibolo if you notice any of the following symptoms:
If your implant feels loose or moves around when you eat or speak, it may be a sign that it's not properly anchored in your jawbone. This can happen if the implant doesn't integrate properly with the jaw bone or if the bone and tissue surrounding the implant have deteriorated.
While some discomfort is normal after dental implant surgery, persistent pain can be a sign of implant failure. If you experience ongoing pain, swelling, or tenderness around the implant site, it's important to contact your dentist immediately.
Gum inflammation or infection can also be a sign of dental implant failure. If you notice that the gums around your implant are swollen, red, or painful, it may be a sign of peri-implantitis, which is an infection of the tissue surrounding the implant. This can occur if bacteria accumulate around the implant and cause inflammation or infection.
If you can see visible damage to your dental implant, such as a crack or chip, let your dentist know about it. Any damage to the implant can compromise its integrity and increase the risk of failure.
It's normal to experience some soreness in the first days after the implant surgery. You may also feel a weird sensation after the dentist places the dental crown. But, after that, the implant should feel just like your natural teeth.
If it's difficult to bite or chew with your implant, it may be a sign that it's not functioning properly. This can happen if the implant isn't properly aligned with the surrounding teeth, or if the crown isn't fitted correctly.
If the gum line around your implant is receding, it may be a sign that the implant is placed too close to the surface of the gum tissue. It can also be a sign that the bone surrounding the implant has deteriorated.
If you suspect that your dental implant may be failing, it's important to visit your dentist as soon as possible. They can evaluate the implant and determine the underlying cause of the problem. Depending on the severity of the issue, they may recommend treatment options such as antibiotics, bone grafting, or implant removal and replacement.
If you're not sure if implants are the right option for you, Niraj Patel, DDS at Cibolo Family Smiles can help you find out if you're a good candidate and present alternative treatments.
Book your consultation with Dr. Patel today.