Dental implants are one of the most reliable and long-lasting tooth replacement options available today. With proper care, they can look, feel, and function like natural teeth for decades—or even a lifetime! However, just like teeth, implants aren’t completely immune to problems, and in rare cases, patients can experience what’s known as implant failure. The good news is that with the right habits and proper care, you can significantly reduce your risk and avoid this issue. Here’s what you need to know.
Implant Failure Can Happen at Any Point
Dental implant failure refers to the situation where a dental implant, which is a titanium post that’s surgically embedded in a patient’s jaw to help restore missing teeth, either doesn’t integrate with the bone tissue properly or becomes unstable over time. This can lead to the implant loosening, moving, or even requiring removal and replacement. Failure can occur early, within a few months of placement, or later, potentially years after—and both situations are problematic.
This means that the first few weeks after implant surgery are crucial for successful healing. Your oral surgeon will provide specific aftercare instructions, such as sticking to soft foods, avoiding smoking, keeping the surgical site(s) clean, and taking any prescribed medications. At the end of the day, it falls on you to keep things on track and ensure a proper recovery that doesn’t lead to implant failure!
You Play a Large Part in Preventing Implant Failure
Plaque and bacteria are leading causes of an infection called peri-implantitis, which can weaken the bone and gum tissues supporting your implant. Needless to say, this is another major concern that can lead to implant failure—but it’s also one that can be prevented with routine oral hygiene.
Thankfully, dental implants don’t require any sort of specialized maintenance, so you can brush and floss them daily in addition to visiting your dentist every six months to keep them in excellent condition. Even if your implants seem fine, routine visits allow your dentist to examine them at a level you cannot yourself, so early problems can be diagnosed and addressed promptly.
Certain lifestyle habits can also put unnecessary stress and risks and dental implants. For example, smoking slows your body’s healing capabilities and increases the risk of implant complications. Grinding or clenching your teeth can also damage implants over time, especially if you grind at night. Additionally, using your teeth (and implants) as tools to open packaging or hold objects can damage them as well.
Dental implants boast a very high success rate, and most patients enjoy them for many years without problems. By following the tips above and keeping your dentist in the loop, you can avoid unnecessary risks and help your new smile remain strong and reliable well into the future.
About the Practice
Our team here at Highline Dental has served the needs of patients and families in Pecan Grove and the surrounding area for several years under the leadership of Dr. Albert Kim. We proudly offer a wide range of services, including dental implant placement performed in-house by Dr. Kim himself. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with our team to schedule a consultation to see if dental implants are right for you, please reach out online or call today for more information. Telephone: (832) 220-9324.