While dental implants are often successful, they can still have problems now and again. One wrong move on your part could make these special posts stop working as they should. With that said, you’ll want to know how to recognize dental implant failure when and if it occurs. The good news is that your Thornville dentist can help with this task. So, just keep reading to learn how to notice and prevent failed dental implants.
How Do You Notice a Failed Dental Implant?
If one of your dental implants fails, that failure will cause a range of noteworthy symptoms. These include:
- A Loose Implant – A successful dental implant is very secure, so it shouldn’t feel loose. The post will likely fail if it starts getting “wobbly.”
- Pain & Discomfort – While some pain is normal after implant surgery, persistent aches aren’t. Such discomfort implies a complication that threatens your implant.
- Swelling or Receding Gums – If the gums around your implant swell or recede, they may be infected. Said infection would destroy the tissues supporting your new tooth.
- Difficulty Chewing – Dental implants are made to work like natural teeth, so they should let you chew comfortably. When they don’t, they’ve probably failed to integrate with your jaw.
Of course, you can’t confirm dental implant failure on your own. Only a qualified dentist can determine whether your post has failed or not.
Why Should You See a Dentist for It?
Once you’ve confirmed your dental implant has failed, have it treated by your dentist. Failing to do so will lead to more severe oral issues.
The truth is that a failed dental implant is harmful to your health. Since it doesn’t work properly, it makes chewing and eating more difficult; those effects deprive you of key nutrients. A failed implant will also irritate your mouth’s tissues, putting you at greater risk of an oral infection. You’ll need to see a dentist as soon as you can to avoid such problems.
How Can You Prevent Dental Implant Failure?
Needless to say, it’s best to avoid dental implant failure in the first place. You can do so by using the following tips:
- Keep Your Mouth Clean – Dental implants depend on a healthy mouth, as they get unstable when nearby teeth and gums have issues. Therefore, remember to practice twice-daily brushing and once-daily flossing.
- See Your Dentist Often – With regular dental checkups and cleanings, a dentist can prevent oral issues from threatening your implant posts.
- Wear a Nightguard – Teeth grinding can cause implant posts to chip or crack. Given that fact, try wearing a custom nightguard while you sleep.
- Avoid Bad Oral Habits – Smoking often leads to gum disease, a major risk factor for dental implant failure. Similarly, chewing hard objects can cause implant posts to fail.
Recognizing dental implant failure is a crucial matter. Therefore, note the details above so your smile stays safe!
About the Practice
Thornville Dental is based in Thornville, OH. Led by Dr. Chase Smith, our practice provides every patient with gentle, cutting-edge, and highly personalized dentistry. We always tailor our oral services to your smile’s needs, whether you’re getting a dental checkup or a dental implant. That means you can trust us to help your grin thrive for a lifetime! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (740)-246-5286.