Why are my dental implants failing?

Why Are My Dental Implants Failing?‍

Dental implants are one of the most effective ways to replace a missing tooth and restore a patient’s oral health. 

Because of their structure, dental implants look and function just like natural teeth. The metal post acts as the root, which helps stimulate the jaw, while the dental crown is the visible portion, allowing patients to chew food and smile without feeling self conscious. 

Dental implants have a high success rate (over 90%) since patients are cleared for the procedure based on a thorough assessment of their health. However, in very rare cases, implant failure can happen.

Here are a few reasons why a dental implant surgery might fail:

1. Jaw Bone Health

Dental implants require healthy jaw mass to be successful. After the metal post is inserted, the body begins a process called osseointegration, during which the jawbone and surrounding tissue fuse to the post and keep it in place.

An unhealthy jawbone cannot do that. In some cases, patients might not have enough mass left in their jaw to support a dental implant, in which case a bone graft surgery may be necessary. Some bone diseases can also affect the success rate of dental implant surgery.

2. Medical Conditions and their Treatment

Your oral surgeon should assess your medical health before recommending dental implant surgery. Certain health conditions or their treatment can increase the risk of implant failure tremendously, in which case the dentist might recommend an alternative tooth replacement procedure.

For example, cancer patients going through chemo and radiation are usually not good candidates for dental implants.

3. Gum Infection‍

Like healthy bones, dental implants require healthy gums to increase their success rate. Implant failure rates skyrocket in patients who develop gum infections.

This is why it’s crucial to maintain good oral health after getting the implant surgery. If you’re dealing with gum disease, your surgeon will first recommend treating it before you can get your implant.

What to Do If You’re Experiencing Implant Failure‍

Cases of implant failure don’t always mean you go back to the drawing board. With swift intervention, you may still be able to treat the underlying cause of the implant failure or opt for a more suitable tooth replacement option such as dental crowns or bridges.

But it’s important to remember that cases of implant failure are extremely low. At Mestichelli Barnes Dental Associates, you’ll only be cleared for dental implant surgery after a very thorough assessment of your oral and medical health, which lowers the risk of failure tremendously.

Get a Happy and Healthy Smile‍

Whether you’re looking for a restorative or cosmetic dentist, Dr. Bill Mestichelli and Dr. Michael Barnes are here to help you get the smile you’ve always wanted.

Book a consultation at Mestichelli Barnes Dental Associates online, or call (215) 334-2000 for more information. 

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