A dental implant is a dependable way to replace a missing tooth. While some implants may loosen or fail under certain conditions, most implants work well for many years when the gums and bone remain healthy. The key is to recognize the warning signs of trouble early and to support this smile restoration with excellent care.
A dental implant is a metal post, often titanium, that a dentist places right into the jawbone to help replace one or more missing teeth. This metal post fuses with the bone, becoming an artificial tooth root and a strong foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture. As a result, the final smile restoration can support normal biting and chewing with impressive stability. Many patients describe the sensation as nearly identical to that of a natural tooth.
An implant-supported crown, bridge, or denture could fall out. The implant itself, however, is secured beneath the gums, so it is not likely to pop out of the mouth. Unfortunately, it can still loosen and break free from the jawbone. This condition is known as implant failure.
An implant can fail early due to improper healing, preventing it from fully fusing with the bone. Alternatively, it may fail years later due to peri-implantitis (gum disease around the implant). Overloading the implant, such as from teeth grinding or an uneven bite, is another leading cause of failure.
The good news is that implant failure is preventable. Choosing a dentist experienced in implant placement and maintenance can help patients avoid it. Practicing good oral hygiene also supports success with implants.
Sometimes, the problem is not with the implant itself but with the crown, bridge, or denture. These visible components of an implant system can become damaged, shift, or detach without the underlying implant failing. A quick evaluation usually identifies the exact part that needs attention. The dentist can then quickly provide repairs or replacements, so the patient can return to their daily routine.
Most patients notice small warning signs before a dental implant becomes seriously unstable. These include:
Addressing these symptoms early helps prevent the problem from worsening and supports a functional, comfortable bite for years to come.
A few daily habits can help prevent problems with dental implants. For example, consistent oral hygiene makes a big difference in the longevity of an implant. Patients must brush and floss carefully to keep the gumline free of plaque. It is also important to avoid overloading the restoration, such as by biting nails, chewing on ice, or using the teeth to open packages. Finally, regular dental appointments allow a dentist to deep clean the whole smile and spot any implant-related issues as soon as possible.
A dental implant can support a stable tooth replacement when properly cared for. With strategic placement and regular checkups, a dentist can also help an implant last a lifetime. Contact Dr. Eric Johnson for more information.
Request an appointment here: https://www.drericjohnson.com or call Dr. Eric Johnson at (949) 205-1139 for an appointment in our San Clemente office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants in San Clemente, CA.
Looking for information on dental implants? If you have suffered significant tooth loss, but not enough to need a complete arch replacement, you can get a dental bridge supported by dental implants. Implant-supported bridges can provide a reliable, functional, and long-term solution to tooth loss. Unlike traditional bridges or removable partial dentures, a dental implant-supported…
A dental implant may impact your teeth straightening options and treatment itself. You likely have a dental implant because you have had a missing tooth and chose an implant as your tooth replacement option, along with a dental restoration such as a crown. A healthy mouth is one that has a full set of straight…
When a person has missing teeth, it is likely that they will begin to consider their replacement options, such as a dental implant restoration. Implant dentistry has become more and more popular for patients in need of restorative care.If you are considering different dental implant restoration options, then you may find the following information to…
Dental implants provide an alternative to dentures and dental bridges when it comes to replacing missing teeth. The process involves fusing titanium posts, which act as tooth roots, to the jaw and placing an artificial tooth to the abutment that is attached to the post. The implants hold the artificial teeth in place and also…
Many patients wonder whether a cosmetic dentist can provide orthodontic treatment to improve their smiles without having to see a separate specialist. If you want to straighten your smile, it is important to know which type of provider is right for you. Your choice will depend on your specific goals for your smile and your…
Monitoring dental fillings remains vital to maintaining a healthy smile, as these repairs eventually wear down over the years of daily chewing. While a filling protects the tooth for a long time, it is not a permanent fix and often needs to be replaced to prevent further decay. Spotting the early warning signs of a…