It is rare that a Houston dental implant fails — in fact, this procedure has over a 95 percent success rate. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be alert to the signs that one of your implants may be in trouble. The sooner you notice any hints that indicate your new smile is failing, you should visit an oral surgeon. It might be possible to save the implant so you can continue to enjoy your strong, beautiful, and complete set of teeth.
Signs of Implant Failure
Here are some signs that may indicate there is a problem with your dental implant in Houston:
- An implant feels loose or wobbly
- There is swelling or redness around an implant
- You’re experiencing pain around the implant
- It is difficult for you to chew food in the area of your mouth that has the implant
If implant failure is going to occur, it usually happens soon after the placement surgery, when there is a risk that the body will not bond properly with the implant. However, even if you have had your implants for many years, there is still a small chance that you’ll experience problems. Health conditions, poor oral hygiene habits, and facial trauma can all lead to damage or infection around your dental implants in Houston.
While it is often possible to salvage failing implants, it’s best to prevent such issues in the first place. If you diligently care for your new smile and attend regular checkups with your dentist, it is likely that you’ll be able to avoid infections and enjoy all the benefits of your dental implants for the rest of your life.
Saving Your Dental Implants
If, despite your best efforts to protect your Houston dental implants, you notice an issue with one of them, make an appointment with an oral surgeon as soon as possible. Someone who has an intimate knowledge of the orofacial structures and who has extensive experience with dental implants is in the best position to analyze your problem and recommend a solution.
Sometimes, the implant restoration rather than the implant itself is the problem. In such a case, you may simply need to get a new crown, bridge, or denture. However, if the problem comes from an infection or trauma, surgery could be your best treatment option. Your dentist may have to remove the implant, give your body a chance to heal from any damage that has occurred, and then replace the implant. Sometimes, such as if an infection has caused a significant decrease in bone mass, a bone graft might be necessary to provide your implant with the support it needs in order to thrive.
How are your dental implants doing? If you have any concerns about them, contact an oral surgeon right away.
About the Author
Dr. Steve Koo completed a residency in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of the Texas Houston Program in 2007, after which he joined forces with Dr. Tom Weil to establish Piney Point Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. He has a special interest in dental implants and would be pleased to help you if you suspect there is a problem with your restored smile. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Koo, contact us at 713-783-5560.