Loose Dental Implant? Here’s What You Should Do.

Dental implants provide the most predictable results when treating tooth loss. They have over a 95% success rate and can last for 30 years or longer. Your dentist will place a titanium post into your jawbone to serve as a tooth root. An abutment is connected to the post to support your prosthetic tooth. After your jawbone fuses with your implant, it should never feel loose. If your dental implant wiggles, it’s a sign you need to contact your dentist immediately. 

Common Causes of Loose Dental Implant

The risk of dental implant failure is less than 5%, but complications can occur immediately after your placement surgery or several years down the road. Common causes of implant failure include:

• Insufficient Bone Support: Tooth loss and infections can cause your jawbone to deteriorate. Your implants may need to be removed if there’s not enough support. Your dentist can strengthen your jaw with a bone grafting procedure.
• Peri-Implantitis: Bacteria found in plaque and tartar can cause an infection that’s like gum disease. It can destroy your oral structures over time. Your dentist can stop the infection quickly if you act fast.
• Damaged Restoration: Your restoration will be made of durable materials, but it can experience wear and tear. Damage to your restoration can cause your implant to feel loose.

Signs of Dental Implant Failure

Signs of dental implant failure aren’t anything to ignore. It’s important to contact your dentist if you experience any symptoms, like:

• Pain When Chewing
• Gum Inflammation
• Gum Recontouring
• Implant Feels Loose

Don’t Wait to See Your Dentist

The problem won’t go away with no treatment. Your dentist will get you into the office quickly to examine your mouth. They’ll find the source of the instability to create a personalized treatment plan, like gum disease therapy, bone grafting, or a replacement restoration. The sooner you visit your dentist, the more likely they can save your dental implant.

You can avoid dental implant failure by committing to good oral hygiene at home. Brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once daily. Eat nutritious foods and moderate those that are hard or chewy. Visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. Your dental implants can last for decades with the correct care.

About Dr. Julia Karpman

Dr. Karpman is a graduate of the University of Connecticut, School of Dental Medicine. She has continued her training regularly in various specialties, like periodontics, prosthodontics, and dental implants. She is affiliated with many professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. If your dental implant is loose, request an appointment online or call (860) 940-2230.