Dental implants have an astonishing success rate that is over 95%! That being said, dental implant failure may be rare, but it’s still possible. It’s always important to be on the lookout for early signs that could indicate dental implant failure, like if your dental implant feels wiggly. Continue reading to learn why dental implants become loose and which next step you should take if you find yourself in this situation.
Why Is My Dental Implant Loose?
There are multiple reasons why this can occur. Here are some of the most common causes of a loose dental implant:
- Failed Osseointegration: When a titanium dental implant is placed in the jawbone, the surrounding bone tissue fuses to the metal to create a very strong physical bond. This process is called “osseointegration.” However, an issue could have occurred, preventing osseointegration from taking place.
- Infection: Another common cause of dental implant failure is an infection called “periodontitis.” This is what happens when gum disease is left untreated and becomes severe. This gum infection develops around the teeth and attacks the surrounding gum tissue. This can happen soon after surgery or many months or years down the road. Ultimately, this can attack the jawbone surrounding the dental implant, therefore causing it to become loose.
- Overloading: This occurs when dental implants are placed under too much pressure. This impacts the osseointegration process. Overloading can happen when patients receive their replacement teeth too soon after their dental implant placement surgery or when the then implants are disturbed during their healing process.
- Low-Quality Restorations: If your crown, bridge, or dentures become unstable, this can cause the dental implants to loosen as a result of the shifting and movement.
How to Handle a Loose Dental Implant
If you notice that your dental implant is loose, you should schedule an emergency visit with your dentist. The quicker they can look at it and address the issue, the more likely that your dental implant can be restored. During this appointment, they will examine the area to determine the underlying cause. Then, an appropriate treatment plan will be made for you. Until you are able to see your dentist, avoid chewing on the side of your mouth with the loose dental implant. You don’t want to put too much pressure on it.
By seeking dental attention as soon as possible, you may be able to save your dental implant. This way, you can continue showing off a complete smile!
About the Author
At Carlson Dental Group Advanced Dentistry, Dr. Khoi Le and Dr. Edward Murray work together to serve the Jacksonville community. With their combined expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need at one of their two convenient locations. If you have concerns regarding your dental implant, they would be happy to take a look. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (904) 262-8409.