When a Dental Implant Needs Repair
Dental implants have a success rate above 95%, but they're not immune to problems. Knowing what can go wrong and when to call helps you protect your investment and avoid bigger issues down the road.
Most dental implants last for decades without any trouble. But like any medical device, things can occasionally go wrong. Some issues show up shortly after placement. Others develop years later. Either way, early attention almost always leads to a better outcome.
If something feels off with your implant, don't wait on it. Call us at (207) 784-5769 and let Dr. Lee take a look.
What Can Go Wrong
Crown damage. The most common issue isn't with the implant itself but with the crown on top. Crowns can chip, crack, or loosen over time from normal wear or habits like grinding. Replacing or reattaching a crown is straightforward and doesn't affect the implant post underneath.
Peri-implantitis. This is an infection of the tissue surrounding the implant, similar to gum disease around natural teeth. It can cause redness, swelling, bleeding around the implant, and if left untreated, bone loss that threatens the implant's stability. Smoking, poor hygiene, and diabetes increase the risk.
Failed integration. In rare cases, the implant post doesn't fuse properly with the bone. This is usually detected within the first few months after placement. It can result from insufficient bone density, infection, certain medications, or smoking during the healing period.
Loosening over time. An implant that felt solid for years can become loose due to gradual bone loss, untreated gum disease, trauma, or excessive grinding forces. A custom night guard helps protect implants from grinding damage.
How We Diagnose and Treat It
Dr. Lee starts with a thorough evaluation. He'll examine the implant site, take X-rays to assess bone levels, review your symptoms and medical history, and determine what's causing the problem.
Treatment depends on the issue. A damaged crown is a simple replacement. Peri-implantitis may require deep cleaning around the implant and antibiotic therapy. If the implant has failed or bone loss is significant, removal and bone grafting may be necessary before placing a new implant.
In some cases, the issue started with the original placement. A poorly positioned implant or insufficient planning can lead to problems that only show up later. If that's the situation, Dr. Lee will be straightforward about what happened and what's needed to fix it properly.
Protecting Your Implant Long Term
The best way to avoid complications is the same as caring for natural teeth. Brush twice a day, floss around the implant daily, and keep up with your regular checkups and cleanings. Dr. Lee monitors your implants at every visit, checking for signs of bone changes, gum inflammation, or hardware issues.
If you grind your teeth, a night guard protects both your implants and your natural teeth from excessive force. If you smoke, quitting is the single best thing you can do for your implant's longevity.
Have Questions? We're Here to Help
Our team is ready to answer your questions and help you achieve optimal dental health.