02 Feb What Are the First Signs of Dental Implant Failure?
Dental implants are widely valued for their durability and longevity, but complications can occur, and implants may fail. Catching this failure early and recognizing the signs of implant failure can be critical in saving the implant and protecting your oral health. Here’s a breakdown of what a failing implant feels like, common symptoms, and whether the implant can be saved.
Early Signs That Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Generally speaking, implants have a high success rate, but complications or issues can still develop even years after placement. Here are some warning signs that should never be ignored.
1. Pain that doesn’t improve
Soreness is to be expected immediately after your implant procedure and should subside within a few days. But persistent, increasing pain may indicate severe issues such as infection, systemic breakdown with the implant or abutment, or bone graft failure. If you experience pain that doesn’t improve, contact your oral surgeon’s office immediately.
2. Gum infection or inflammation
Infected dental implant symptoms range from redness and swelling to tenderness around the implant. Other telltale signs of infection to look for include pus around the implant, bleeding at the gumline, bad breath, or a bad taste in the mouth. Immediate treatment can stop the infection and prevent it from affecting your jawbone.
3. Loose dental implant
A loose dental implant for Richmond patients is a serious concern because an implant should feel secure, with no movement. This can be caused by bone loss, infection, failed fusing of the implant to the bone, or damage to the implant. You will need a consultation right away to evaluate the implant’s mobility.
What Does a Failed Dental Implant Feel Like?
Patients report a feeling of warmth with the swelling, with a pulsing sensation around the implant area. Other symptoms noted were difficulty or sensitivity while chewing or biting, an odd pressure sensation, jaw aching or throbbing, and the implant moving freely. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to get them checked out promptly.
Can a Failed Implant Be Saved?
Catching a failing implant early is key, and prompt intervention will likely save the implant. Your treatment plan may include antibiotics to stave off infection or a deep clean of the tissue surrounding the implant to clear any remaining infection. Sometimes, the implant may need to be removed and replaced once bone health is restored.
Knowing the signs of dental implant failure and when to call our office can be a game-changer in saving your implant. When you contact us for an immediate appointment, we will guide you back to good oral health.