Dental implants are often recommended as the best form of tooth replacement, and for good reason. They are strong, sturdy, long-lasting, and overwhelmingly successful. In fact, the dental implant procedure is successful in more than 95% of cases. However, it must be admitted that this treatment does not come with any guarantees. Rarely, a patient might find that their dental implant feels loose. What can cause a loose dental implant, and what should you do if you ever suspect there is a problem with one of your prosthetic teeth? This blog post explains what you should know.
Why Does Your Implant Feel Loose?
There are a couple of reasons why your dental implant might feel loose:
The Implant Is Not Firmly Bonded with Your Jawbone
After a dental implant is placed in the jawbone, a biological process known as osseointegration should occur. Essentially, the implant bonds with the surrounding tissue. In rare cases, certain medical conditions can cause osseointegration to fail, which can lead to a loose dental implant.
Even years after successful osseointegration, an implant may still become loose. An infection or injury may damage the jawbone and loosen its hold on the implant.
There Is a Problem with Your Restoration
The crown, bridge, or denture that gets attached to your implants should be set firmly in place. However, if it gets damaged, it may loosen or even fall out of your mouth completely.
How to Handle a Loose Dental Implant
If one of your implants feels loose, you should call your dentist as soon as possible to request a visit. When you arrive for your appointment, your dental team will examine your mouth and possibly take some X-rays. After they determine the cause of the problem, they can recommend your next steps.
You might need something relatively simple, such as a new restoration or a new abutment. (An implant abutment is a small connector piece that attaches the implant to its restoration.) In other cases, though, you may require more extensive care. For example, you could need treatment for an infection and a bone graft to restore lost tissue in your jaw. It might even be necessary to completely remove your implant. After a healing period, you may be eligible to receive a new one.
A loose dental implant is a big deal! Take prompt action so your smile’s health and function can get back on track as soon as possible.
Meet the Practice
Four Town Dental features a talented, highly skilled team of general dentists and specialists. We provide comprehensive dental implant care. If you are interested in getting implants, or you are concerned about the health of your existing implants, we are ready to serve you. Contact our Enfield office at 860-856-6928.