Dental Implants: Signs Of Failure
Posted on: 14 June 2017
Any surgical procedure has the risk of failing, which is even true of dental implants. The key to catching problems earlier on during recovery is to be familiar with the warning signs that the implant is starting to fail. Keep these 4 things in mind, and consult your dentist if you recognize any of these signs that your dental implant is failing.
4 Signs of Failure
Pain
Your body uses pain as a sign that something is wrong. See your dentist immediately if you suddenly experience discomfort in the area your dental implant was installed. While there will be discomfort right after you have the surgery, pay attention to any lingering pain while the area is healing.
An antibiotic can be prescribed to help fight the bacteria attacking the tissue in your jaw.
Gum Shrinking
It is not normal to have your gums recede around a dental implant. Receding gums often occur due to gums that are not getting enough blood due to gum disease. Your dentist can help treat your problem with gum disease, and prevent the implant from becoming exposed.
Bleeding and Inflammation
A dental implant can become compromised if the gums become infected with a disease. Contamination can result in the area having overall discomfort, bleeding, and inflammation. You'll need to go back to your dentist for help resolving this problem to save the implant. If ignored, the implant can cause the bone to disintegrate.
Loose Implant
Your dental implant should never have the feeling as if it is loose or wobbling. This is a clear sign that the implant did not bond to the jawbone properly, and you should visit a dentist immediately to have the problem resolved. While a loose implant may seem like common sense that the implant is failing, don't make the mistake of thinking it will get better with time.
The Importance of Early Intervention
An implant that is failing may need to be completely removed and placed back into the jawbone, especially loose dental implants. Getting the problem fixed at the first signs of trouble will limit the amount of damage caused to your jawbone. If the jawbone is too damaged then you may need a bone graft to make the are stronger.
Be aware that the failure of a dental implant can happen immediately after the surgery or years later. Don't be afraid to visit your dentist about when you think you see the first sign of trouble.
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