Dental Implant Fell Out
Dental implants are a permanent restoration used to replace a single missing tooth or even an entire mouth on both arches. Dental implants can easily last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance, though the restoration on the implant (the fake tooth or denture) may need to be replaced simply due to normal wear and tear. A dental implant can become loose or even fall out in some cases so let’s review what to do in the event that your implant becomes loose or completely falls out.
Why would a dental implant fail?
Though dental implants have a high success rate, there are a few reasons an implant can fail. Some of these include:
- Insufficient supporting bone structure
- Stress on the implant during healing
- Weak immune system
- Biological rejection of the implant
If you follow your oral surgeon’s directions both before and after your implant surgery, you will greatly increase the likelihood that your implant will be a success!
What do I do if my dental implant falls out?
Dental implants have an overall success rate of about 95-97%. It is rare but on occasion, an implant can become loose and fall out. If your dental implant falls out, call your dentist immediately for an emergency visit. Dental offices typically reserve time in their schedule each day just for emergency cases so it is important to call as soon as your implant falls out. Even if it is after hours, call the office anyway to get the after hours emergency information or leave a message so someone can get back to you as soon as possible.
Your implant may be able to be re-inserted and tightened to make sure it does not fall out again or perhaps only the restoration will come off of the implant, which is not an emergency. If only the implant crown or other restoration comes loose, it can usually be screwed back down again. In some cases, the abutment can become damaged and need to be replaced. If you have a stock abutment as opposed to a custom abutment, most any dental office will be able to replace the abutment if you are unable to get to your regular dentist. So, if you are out of town when your abutment is compromised, you can still have your implant fixed!
In the event that your actual implant is loose and moving below the gum line, you might have a loss of bone structure or an advanced form of periodontal disease. If periodontal disease is caught early, it can usually be treated with a deep cleaning by your dental hygienist accompanied by improved oral hygiene. You may also require an antibiotic to make sure the infection is cleared up completely. If periodontal disease is caught in an early stage, your doctor may be able to re-insert your implant once everything is healed and healthy.
To determine if an implant can be saved, you will need an exam by your dentist. If any part of your implant falls out, you should contact your dentist immediately. At your visit, they will take x-rays to help determine the reason your implant has fallen out. When you call your doctor, describe to them exactly what fell out if you can. If just the crown fell out, then the implant itself is likely still in place. If it is clear that the implant has come out all together, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist will review the x-rays and discuss your options on how to resolve the problem. If your implant cannot be re-inserted, your dentist will provide you with alternative treatments to dental implants.
Dental Implant Care and Maintenance
A dental implant is placed directly into the jaw bone below the gum line. A small portion of the implant protrudes through the gum tissue so that the abutment and implant restoration can be placed. A successful implant fuses to the bone structure, creating a stable foundation for the restoration. As we age, we tend to lose bone mass so it is important for patients to maintain a healthy diet and overtime, possibly incorporate supplements to ensure a strong bone fusion with your implant. Treating bone mass issues and gum disease can greatly improve the patient's likelihood of keeping their implant for life.
Even though an implant is incredibly strong and durable, there are still some precautions that you may want to take to avoid putting too much pressure on your implant. Very hard foods that are difficult to chew can damage your implant. Sticky foods can become stuck to the implant and may be difficult to brush away and foods such as popcorn and nuts can become lodged between teeth and irritate your implant.
Patients with dental implants should maintain an oral care routine that is just as good if not better than when you had all of your natural teeth. It is important to floss at least once a day, especially around your implant and to brush at least twice a day with a soft bristled toothbrush. Regular visits to your dentist for professional cleanings will help ensure that your implant remains healthy and strongly fixed in your mouth. Implant patients that develop periodontal disease are at a higher risk for implant failure so it is important to maintain good oral hygiene and regular visits to your dentist. The doctor who placed your implant will also want to see you at least once a year for follow-up examinations to make sure that your implant is healthy and that your bone structure is sound. Even though you see your general dentist regularly, visiting your implant doctor is vital to the success of your implant.
Keeping Your Dental Implant for a Lifetime
Even if you do not experience any issues following your implant placement surgery, it is important to follow through with your post-op directions and to see your doctor as instructed until you are fully healed and to then maintain an annual recall schedule. One of the main reasons an implant comes out is because the patient puts too much pressure on them while they are healing. Excessive pressure prevents the bone from creating the osseointegration necessary to ensure proper bone-to-implant fusion.