November 23, 2022

Just because dental implants in Pekin have a high success rate doesn’t mean they won’t fail. Statistics reveal that 1 in every 20 patients experiences dental implant failure. However, even though your chances of developing complications are slim, it could still happen. Identifying symptoms of dental implant failure is essential so you can take action right away before the condition worsens.    

illustration of dental implants in Pekin

How Do You Know If You’re Experiencing Dental Implant Failure?    

What Are Dental Implants?  

A dental implant is a conical-shaped metal rod surgically implanted into your jawbone to support a dental prosthesis such as a denture, bridge, or crown. Research shows that dental implant surgery has had a 90% to 95% success rate for over a decade.    

What Are the Signs of Dental Implant Failure?  

Gums Start to Recede  

Anatomically, your natural tooth roots are covered by gum tissues. Your gums not only make your smile more attractive, but they also function by stabilizing your teeth. However, if you notice that your teeth look unusually longer or if the grey-colored metal implant is starting to show, it could indicate an infection known as peri-implantitis, a condition that’s quite like gum disease.  

When peri-implantitis is left untreated, it can damage your gums and jawbone, impacting the stability of your implants. As soon as you receive your implants, watch out for gum recession.  

Pain and Swelling Around the Site

After your surgery, it is normal to experience swelling and slight discomfort. Swelling should last up to two to three days. The area around the site will swell since this is your body’s natural way of dealing with trauma. Bruising may also be evident. But if the swelling continues for weeks, you should inform your oral surgeon about it.  

As for pain, although a dental implant does not contain nerves, it doesn’t mean you won’t be able to feel anything. Any problem with your implant can directly affect your gum tissues. So, if the gums around the implants are painful, you should let your dentist know. Abnormal pain and swelling that extends for weeks after the surgery are possible signs of dental implant failure.  

3D model of dental implants in Pekin

Dental Prosthesis Feel Loose

The goal of dental implant surgery is to allow the implant to permanently bond with your bone tissues – a process known as osseointegration.

The fusion of the implant and your jawbone is necessary to provide a strong and secure foundation for your artificial dental crown. However, if your implant feels a bit loose, let your dentist know as soon as possible because if you continue to chew or bite with a loose implant, it could come out entirely. One cause of loose implants is bruxism.  

Bruxism is a condition wherein a person grinds, clenches, or gnashes their teeth, consciously or unconsciously. Unfortunately, if you wear dental implants and have bruxism, there’s a high chance your implants will come loose.  

Infection

An infection at the site is also a common occurrence. It should be treated immediately to stop the infection from spreading to other body parts. The treatment for the infection varies depending on the location and severity of the infection.  

dentist checks patients teeth before starting the procedure on dental implants in Pekin

Do You Need to Have Your Dental Implants in Pekin Checked?

Even if you have been wearing your implants for years, it’s still essential to have them regularly checked to avoid dental implant failure. At Smalltown Dental, we offer affordable dental care that will maintain and improve your oral health. Our doctors have years of experience and training that they can use to help you achieve your goals. Contact us today for an appointment.

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