Signs of a Failed Dental Implant

Implant placement has a very high success rate, and most do not experience issues with their implant for years and years after placement. However, there are times when a dental implant may fail, especially after decades of use, and it is important to be able to spot the signs of a failed dental implant.

Signs of a failed dental implant

By understanding the most common signs of a failed dental implant, you can ensure prompt dental care is administered in order to repair or replace the implant. By doing so, the risk of an infection or an inability to function for an extended amount of time can be avoided. The following are the four most common signs that a dental implant has failed.

Pain or discomfort

In many cases, the most obvious sign that a dental implant has failed is pain and discomfort, which is usually the result of implant displacement. When a dental implant becomes damaged or out of place in any way, it can place pressure on surrounding teeth and affect the gums and jaw in a negative manner, resulting in swelling and pain in and around the area the implant is placed. It is recommended to visit the dentist for diagnosis and treatment any time pain or discomfort is experienced due to an implant, regardless of the age of the implant.

Swollen gums

Swollen gums are one of the more serious signs of a failed dental implant, as it may suggest an infection has developed, especially if the swelling only occurs in the area surrounding the implant. While swollen gums may suggest other issues such as irritation or gum disease, it is important to visit the dentist anytime you have swollen gums, particularly if the swelling mainly takes place around the implant. With prompt care, an infection can be treated and the implant may be able to stay in place with minor repairs.

Loose implant

Much like a natural tooth, a loose artificial tooth, or loose implant, is a serious cause for concern. Dental implants are made to be securely set in place by either fusing the implant into the jawbone or fixing it on the jawbone, which is meant to supply a natural-like hold for the abutment and artificial tooth. When an implant becomes loose, it suggests that the implant is not secure inside or on the jaw, and it is important to schedule a time to visit the dentist for the failed dental implant as soon as possible.

Difficulty eating

Anytime your function, such as biting, chewing or talking, is affected due to a dental implant, it often suggests that the implant has failed.While difficulty talking may be a much rarer sign of a failed dental implant, many who have a failed dental implant find it difficult to eat, especially if the implant replaced a premolar or molar. It is important to visit the dentist as soon as possible when an implant makes it difficult to eat, as a failed dental implant can put you at greater risk of an infection or suffering from unnecessary pain or discomfort.Request an appointment here: https://www.mariettaroswelldentist.com or call Marietta Roswell Dental Care at (770) 993-2657 for an appointment in our Roswell office.