Are you thinking about getting dental implants? While they are a popular and effective method of replacing lost teeth, they are not without risk. 

Bad dental implants can lead to major complications ranging from infections to implant failure. 

dental implant failure

In truth, dental implants can go wrong and cause major difficulties in some cases.

Bad dental implants can have a substantial influence on your oral health and overall well-being, ranging from infections and pain to implant failure.

We'll look at what happens when dental implants fail in this blog post so you can make an informed decision about your oral health.

Continue reading to discover more, whether you're already suffering with issues or simply want to be prepared for the worst-case scenario! 

What is a Bad Dental Implant?

When a dental implant is implanted in the jawbone, it is critical that it merge with the bone properly. If this does not occur, it is said that the implant "failed."

There are several ways for an implant to fail, but all of them require the implant to be removed and replaced.

When a dental implant fails, one of the following things is usually to blame: 

Infection: 

 If an infection develops at the implant site, the implant must be removed. The most common reason for failing dental implants is infection.

Misaligned teeth: 

If the teeth surrounding the implant are misaligned, they might exert pressure on the implant, causing it to fail.

Improper placement: 

If the implant is not placed in the correct position, it can put undue stress on the surrounding teeth and eventually fail.

bad dental implants

Signs of Failed Dental Implants

There are several signs of dental implant failure that you should be aware of:

1. Pain: 

 If you are experiencing pain or discomfort near your dental implant, this could indicate that the implant is failing.

2. Swelling: 

Swelling near the implant site can potentially suggest an implant issue.

3. Infection: 

An infection around the implant site might cause redness, swelling, and pain.

4. Looseness: 

If the implant feels loose or moves when touched, this could indicate that it is failing.

5. Bone Loss: 

If the bone around the implant begins to recede or shrink, this could signal that the implant is failing.

6. Gum Recession: 

If the gum tissue around the implant begins to recede, exposing the implant and its metal post, could indicate implant failure.

7. Failure to integrate: 

If your implant does not merge with your jawbone, it may become loose or fall out entirely.

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, contact your dentist or oral surgeon right away for an evaluation.

Early intervention can help avoid further damage and improve the odds of implant replacement success. 

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Causes of Failed Dental Implants

Dental implants are a popular tooth replacement option, but they are not without dangers.

Dental implant failure rates range from 5% to 20%. While this may appear to be a modest failure rate, it is nevertheless crucial to be informed of the various causes of failed dental implants.

So you can make an educated judgement about whether they are right for you.

Infection is the most common reason for failing dental implants. To ensure optimal recovery, the implant site must be kept clean and free of microorganisms.

If germs infiltrate the implant site, they can induce an infection that leads to implant failure.

Misalignment is another significant reason of failing dental implants. If the implant is not properly positioned in the jawbone, it will eventually become loose and fail.

Other less common causes of failed dental implants include tooth deterioration, sinus issues, and nerve damage.

Failed dental implants can also be caused by cancer or radiation therapy in rare situations.

If you are thinking about getting dental implants, talk to your dentist about the risks and benefits so you can make an informed decision about whether they are good for you. 

Infection

It’s no secret that infection is one of the primary causes of failed dental implants. In fact, infection is responsible for up to 65% of all implant failures.

There are a number of reasons why infections can occur after dental implant surgery, but the most common cause is bacteria entering the wound.

This can happen if the surgical site is not properly cleaned or if the patient doesn’t follow proper oral hygiene habits after surgery.

Another common cause of infection is peri-implantitis, which is an inflammation of the tissue around the implant. This condition is often caused by plaque buildup and can lead to bone loss and eventually implant failure.

If you think you may have an infection, it’s important to see your dentist right away. Treatment will vary depending on the severity of the infection, but it’s important to catch and treat infections early to avoid further complications. 

Poor Dental Hygiene

If you don't take care of your teeth, you may end up with problems that could lead to failed dental implants.

Poor dental hygiene can cause tartar and plaque buildup, which can lead to gum disease.

If you have gum disease, your gums may become inflamed and start to pull away from your teeth.

This can make it difficult for your dentist to place the implant in your jawbone, and it may eventually cause the implant to fail. 

Poor Oral Health

There are a number of factors that can contribute to failed dental implants, and poor oral health is one of the most common.

When you have poor oral health, your gums and bones are not as strong and healthy as they should be, which can make it difficult for dental implants to fuse properly with your jawbone.

Additionally, if you have periodontal disease or another serious oral health issue, it may be necessary to get treatment before getting dental implants. 

Inadequate Jawbone Structure

The implant will eventually fail if your jawbone is not strong enough to sustain it. This can occur for a number of causes, including:

Some people are simply born with weaker bones than others. 

  • Damage: A serious damage to the jawbone might weaken it and make supporting an implant more challenging.

  • Diseases: Diseases, such as osteoporosis, can weaken the bones and make them more prone to fracture.

Consult your dentist or oral surgeon if you are unsure whether your jawbone is robust enough for an implant. They will be able to assess your specific situation and determine whether dental implants are correct for you. 

Improperly Placed Implant

One of the many variables that can contribute to a failing dental implant is an incorrectly placed implant.

When an implant is not put correctly, it can cause a variety of issues, including infection, misalignment, and damage to the neighbouring teeth.

Infection is one of the most prevalent complications associated with an incorrectly placed implant. 

If the implant is not properly positioned, bacteria might accumulate around it, leading to infection.

Infections can be excruciatingly painful and may necessitate antibiotics or even surgery to manage.

Misalignment is another typical issue linked with incorrectly placed implants. If an implant is not properly installed, it can damage the surrounding teeth.

This can cause a variety of issues, including chewing and speaking difficulties, as well as an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Finally, harm to the neighbouring teeth can occur as a result of an incorrectly placed implant.

When an implant is not properly positioned, it can exert pressure on the neighbouring teeth, causing them to get damaged or even break. 

Treatment Options for Failed Dental Implants

There are a number of reasons why dental implants may fail, and as such, there are a number of different treatment options available. 

The most common cause of failed dental implants is an infection, which can be treated with antibiotics or, in more severe cases, surgery. 

Other causes of failed dental implants include misalignment, which can be corrected with surgery, and damage to the surrounding teeth, which can be treated with either tooth-coloured fillings or crowns.

Prevention Strategies for Avoiding Failed Dental Implants

Prevention is the key to avoiding faulty dental implants. A variety of techniques can be used to assist reduce the chance of implant failure, including:

1. Maintaining good oral hygiene:

Maintaining good oral hygiene is critical for preventing implant failure. Brush and floss on a regular basis, and see your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups.

2. Avoiding smoking:

Smoking is a major risk factor for implant failure. Quitting smoking or using other tobacco products is the most effective strategy to minimise your risk.

3. Eating a healthy diet:

Eating a healthy diet promotes good dental health and can lower the chance of implant failure. Consume plenty of fruits, veggies, and whole grains while limiting sugary and acidic foods.

4. Chronic condition management:

Chronic illnesses like as diabetes or autoimmune diseases might increase the chance of implant failure. If you have a chronic ailment, make sure to collaborate with your healthcare provider to properly manage it.

5. Selecting an experienced implant dentist:

When selecting a dentist for your implants, be sure they are experienced and have an excellent track record with this operation.

Dental implant treatment is a difficult process that necessitates careful consideration of numerous elements.

When any of these concerns, from infection to misalignment and beyond, is missed or not addressed effectively, the likelihood of failure increases considerably.

With a hand of a skilled dental staff, you can be confident that each step of your dental implant journey will be handled with great care and attention to detail, allowing you to experience long-lasting results. 

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