Dental implants are meant to last for as long as possible. In fact, a properly placed and cared for dental implant can last for life. By visiting your dentist regularly and taking excellent care of your implant, you can ensure that the implant remains secure and never needs to be replaced.
Implants have a very low failure rate—in some cases, less than 10% of implants will fail [1]. However, it’s still important to be aware of the signs that your dental implant may be failing in the event that you experience a problem with your restoration.
The following are the most common signs that your implant needs attention as soon as possible.
Gum Recession
If your dental implant was improperly placed or has shifted since it was installed, you may start seeing gum recession. Receding gums are noticeable because the crown of the tooth will appear longer. In some cases, the implant itself, or a gray color in the gum area from the implant, may even be visible.
However, a dental implant may also fail because of periodontal disease, or gum disease, which can also cause gum recession [2]. It may be difficult to tell if an implant is failing because of improper placement or because of gum disease, so it’s important to follow up with your dentist.
Pain or Discomfort
Any type of pain or discomfort around your dental implant, outside of the expected healing period, is not normal. If you have a fully healed implant and begin experiencing anything from mild occasional discomfort to severe pain, it’s imperative to see your dentist.
Continuous pain is a sign that your dental implant could be failing and should always be evaluated by your experienced oral healthcare professional [3].
Swelling or Bleeding
Some swelling and light bleeding are to be expected immediately after a dental implant procedure. However, if you have a dental implant that has inflammation, redness, or bleeding after the healing period, this is not normal and could be a sign that the implant is failing.
However, not every case of swelling and bleeding in dental implants means the implant has failed. In some cases, peri-implant mucositis, which is a condition that causes gum inflammation around a dental implant but without bone loss, may be able to be treated without compromising the implant [4].
A Loose Dental Implant
A loose dental implant may simply feel unstable in the mouth or you may notice that you have trouble chewing certain foods. So whether your implant is wobbly or you are having pain when chewing or biting, this is a sign your dental implant may be failing and warrants a visit with your dentist as soon as possible. Ignoring a loose implant could lead to a dental emergency or cause damage to the neighboring teeth.
Concerned About a Failing Implant?
If you have a dental implant and are experiencing any of the above signs, don’t wait to see a dentist. In some cases, a failing implant can be saved, although in others, it may need to be replaced. The sooner you seek care, the more options you are likely to have, so follow up with your dentist if you have any concerns about your dental implant.
Sources:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5774056/
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21635280/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4327689/
4. https://www.perio.org/for-patients/periodontal-treatments-and-procedures/dental-
implant-procedures/peri-implant-diseases/
