Most of the time, problems with dental implants are small and easy to fix. But if a problem does happen with a dental implant, it’s important for the patient to get help right away so they can get the right care. At West Houston Periodontics, Dr. Kevin Calongne has many years of experience with the proper placement as well as repair of dental implants.
Dental Implant Problems and the Causes of Failure
Even though more than 95% of dental implants work well, there are a few situations where more dental work or repair may be needed. Most of the time, problems with dental implants are small and easy to fix. But if a problem does happen with a dental implant, it’s important for the patient to seek an expert periodontist.
Failure to Bond Implant to Bone
Once a dental implant is in place, there are several internal and external things that can go wrong, just like with any surgery. Most problems happen when the bone doesn’t grow and connect with the implant properly. This is called “failed osseointegration,” and it will weaken the bond between the implant and the jaw. When the implant fails to fuse with the natural bone, it can be hard to chew and the implant may become painful, loose, or even fall out. Failed osseointegration can be caused by poorly placed implants that allow too much pressure to be put on the implant, bones that are not dense enough, infection, or trauma.
Not Enough Bone Density
Oral bisphosphonates, which are used to treat osteoporosis, can stop the bone from healing properly after an implant is put in. Before getting a dental implant, people who take Fosamax, Actonel, or Boniva should let their dentist know.
Infection
Peri-implantitis is an infection that can make the gum and bone around a dental implant to swell up and hurt. Inflammation breaks down the bone, which could cause the dental implant to come loose. Peri-implantitis can be caused by smoking, diabetes, a weak immune system, thin gums or exposed bones, and not taking care of your teeth.
For antibiotic therapy to save a dental implant, the infection must be caught early. Unfortunately, Peri-implantitis can progress for months or even years without being noticed. In this case, Dr. Calongne can improve the health of the implant without surgery by using a variety of methods, such as a laser. Signs of infection may include:
- Unusual bleeding from the gums
- Red or purple/blue gum (gum irritation or inflammation)
- The gumline near the implant has pus.
- Unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Loose crown or loose implant
- Sore gums and bad breath
Sinus problems
When implants are used to replace upper teeth, there is a small chance of letting air into the sinuses. If, during surgery, an implant sticks out too far into the sinus cavity without being fixed properly, it can cause inflammation and infection. As a preventative measure, Dr. Calongne may suggest a bone graft to create the necessary barrier between the implant and the sinus cavity. During surgery, there are ways to fix sinus problems if they do happen.
Other issues
Modern dental implants rarely cause problems like foreign body rejection or allergic reactions. Bending and breaking are also rare because the materials are strong. An implant can crack or break, though, because of trauma, outside force, or long-term pressure from grinding teeth. Dr. Calongne can usually handle these problems as well.
Visit West Houston Periodontics
Dr. Kevin Calongne has worked with dental implant treatments, restoration, and repair for many years. If you have a loose or broken dental implant, you should make an appointment to see him at West Houston Periodontic as soon as possible.