Are You Experiencing Dental Implant Failure? Contact Our Dentist Near You for Help
Dental implants are one of the most reliable tooth replacement solutions available, with a long-term success rate of about 95%. However, like any medical or surgical procedure, complications can sometimes occur. Failing dental implants may lead to discomfort, infection, or bone loss if left untreated.
If you’re concerned about a failed implant or wondering if the symptoms you’re experiencing are related to implant failure, our experienced dentist in Pearl, MS, can help. Call our dental clinic in Pearl today at (601) 882-5600 to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Alexa Lampkin. We proudly serve Pearl, Brandon, Richland, Jackson, and nearby areas.
We may not offer treatment for failing dental implants at this time. Please contact our dental office to learn more.
What Causes Dental Implant Failure?
A dental implant failure can occur soon after surgery or even years later (known as late implant failure). Common causes include:
- Peri-implantitis (infection): A bacterial infection around the implant site that attacks bone strength, much like gum disease. Risk factors include poor oral hygiene, smoking, or pre-existing periodontal disease.
- Osseointegration failure: When the implant doesn’t properly fuse with the jawbone. This may result from low bone density, surgical trauma, or improper implant placement.
- Overloading: Excessive pressure on the implant, often from teeth grinding (bruxism) or placing dental implants too soon before healing is complete.
- Medical conditions: Uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune disorders, osteoporosis, and ongoing cancer treatment (such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy) can impair bone metabolism and healing.
- Surgical errors: Inexperienced providers, poor angulation, or incorrect implant procedure technique may compromise implant stability.
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking, heavy alcohol use, and poor nutrition can increase failure risk and delay recovery.
Symptoms of a Failed Implant
Recognizing the early warning signs of a damaged implant is key to successful treatment. Symptoms may include:
- Persistent or severe pain around the implant site
- Red, swollen, or receding gums exposing the implant post
- A loose or wobbling implant
- Difficulty chewing or biting down
- Bad breath, metallic taste, or pus discharge
- Visible bone loss on X-rays
If you notice these symptoms, don’t delay seeking help. Contact our dental office at (601) 882-5600. Our skilled dentist in Pearl can determine whether the implant can be saved or if it requires removal and replacement.
Risk Factors for Dental Implant Failure
Certain conditions increase the risk that dental implants fail, including:
- Smoking and nicotine use
- Poor oral hygiene or bad oral hygiene habits
- Low bone density without bone grafting
- Chronic bruxism (teeth grinding)
- Ongoing cancer treatment or weakened immune system
- Uncontrolled systemic health conditions like diabetes or osteoporosis
- Past gum disease or poor medical history
Diagnosing a Failing Implant in Pearl, MS
When you visit Mint Dental, Dr. Lampkin will carefully evaluate your implant and surrounding tissues. Diagnosis may include:
- A clinical exam for gum inflammation, implant stability, and pain levels
- Digital X-rays or 3D CBCT scans to assess bone growth, implant surface, and jaw structure
- Periodontal probing to check for peri-implantitis or gum pockets
- Bite analysis to identify uneven pressure or stress on the implant
Treatment Options for a Failed Dental Implant
Our Pearl implant dentist can recommend a treatment plan tailored to your condition. Depending on the severity, treatment options include:
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Professional cleaning to remove bacterial buildup
- Antibiotic therapy to treat infection around the implant
- Laser therapy for gum disinfection and faster healing
- Nightguards for bruxism to reduce pressure
Surgical Treatments
- Bone grafting to rebuild healthy bone and stabilize a new dental implant
- Soft tissue grafting for gum recession or damaged connective tissue
- Removed implant & replacement: In severe cases, the failed implant may be taken out and replaced after healing
- Oral surgery referral to oral and maxillofacial surgeons if advanced intervention is needed
Preventing Dental Implant Failure
Most implant failures can be prevented with proper care:
- Good oral hygiene: Brush twice a day, floss daily, and use an antimicrobial rinse
- Regular checkups: Visit Mint Dental every six months for cleanings and monitoring
- Quit smoking: Improves healing and long-term implant success
- Manage medical conditions: Keep diabetes, osteoporosis, or other systemic issues under control
- Protect implants: Wear a custom nightguard if you grind your teeth
- Choose a skilled surgeon: Ensure your implant dentist has experience and training in implant dentistry for the best outcome
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, in many cases, a failing implant can be stabilized with professional cleaning, bone grafting, or infection control. If the implant screw or implant post is too damaged, it may need removal and replacement.
Late implant failure occurs months or years after implant placement due to factors like bone loss, peri-implantitis, or long-term stress on the implant. Early detection is crucial to saving the implant.
Possibly. If there’s significant bone loss around the implant site, a bone grafting surgical procedure may be necessary before placing a new implant. This helps create a strong, healthy bone foundation for long-term implant success.
Yes. If a new dental implant isn’t possible, other tooth replacement options like removable partial dentures, dental bridges, or implant-supported restorations may be considered.
Restore Your Oral Health with Implant Dentistry in Pearl, MS
Don’t let implant complications discourage you. With the right care and expertise, you can regain a healthy smile. Dr. Lampkin and the team at Mint Dental provide comprehensive solutions for failing dental implants and will guide you through every step of your treatment plan.
Call Mint Dental at (601) 882-5600 today to schedule your consultation with our Pearl dentist. We proudly serve patients in Pearl, Brandon, Richland, Jackson, and surrounding areas.