Did you know that over 3 million people in the United States have dental implants? This goes to show just how popular and effective dental implants are for tooth replacement. However, like any other dental procedure, dental implants can develop complications over time. One common problem that patients may encounter is a loose dental implant.
In this article, we'll discuss the reasons why a dental implant may feel loose and what you should do about it. Read on!
There are several reasons why a dental implant may feel loose, including:
A dental implant consists of a titanium post that is surgically implanted into the jawbone, an abutment that connects the post to the restoration, and the restoration itself, which can be a crown, bridge, or denture. If the restoration, whether a crown, bridge, or denture becomes damaged, either due to wear and tear over time or from an accident or injury, it can cause the implant to loosen.
This is the process by which the implant fuses with the jawbone. If the osseointegration process is unsuccessful, whether because there's not enough bone to support the implant or if there's an infection present, the implant may not be securely anchored in the jawbone, causing it to feel loose.
If the tissue around the implant becomes inflamed or infected, it can cause the implant to feel loose. This can be caused by poor oral hygiene, smoking, or other factors that affect the health of your gums.
If you notice that your dental implant feels loose, it's important to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. This is because a loose implant can cause further damage to the surrounding teeth and tissue if left untreated.
During the appointment, your dentist will examine the implant and determine the cause of the looseness. They may take X-rays or perform other diagnostic tests to determine the extent of the damage.
Depending on the cause, your dentist may recommend one of several solutions, including:
- Tightening the Abutment: If the implant is loose due to a loose abutment, your dentist may be able to tighten it to stabilize the implant.
- Repairing or Replacing the Restoration: If the implant is loose due to a damaged restoration, your dentist may need to repair or replace the restoration.
- Removing the Implant: If the implant has failed due to poor osseointegration or other issues, your dentist may need to remove the implant and explore other tooth replacement options.
After the procedure, they'll also provide you with specific instructions for post-operative care.
With proper care and attention, your dental implant can be salvaged, allowing you to enjoy your beautiful, natural-looking smile once again.
At Cardinal Family Dentistry, our Apex dentists understand how important it is to have a healthy, beautiful smile. That's why we offer comprehensive dental implant services to help our patients achieve their very best smiles.
Our experienced team of dental professionals, led by Dr. Barker, will work with you to determine the best solution for your specific needs. So, if you have any questions about tooth replacement, loose dental implants, or anything else that relates to oral health, we would be pleased to assist you. Contact us today to make an appointment.
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