A dental implant is an oral prosthetic surgically placed in your jawbone to replace a natural tooth. This procedure helps restore the cosmetic appearance of teeth and preserves the health of the patient’s jawbone by minimizing bone loss. However, not all dental implants work, as our bodies can reject the prosthetic.
Keep reading to learn when and why implants fail, how to tell if your body is rejecting a dental implant, and what to expect after removing a failed implant.
When Do Dental Implants Typically Fail?
A dental implant can fail or show signs of rejection at any moment after the procedure. It could happen anywhere from the day after the surgery to years afterward. Therefore, you need to know the signs of rejection to ensure your dental and oral health remain in good condition.
Why Do Dental Implants Fail?
The most common reason dental implants fail is an infection in your jawbone. However, there are several other reasons your body might reject the implant. The implant might be misaligned, there might be nerve damage, or you could have an allergic reaction. Sometimes, your body views the implant as a foreign object and begins the rejection process to protect yourself.
How Can You Prevent Implant Failure?
How you care for your dental implants after your procedure can make or break whether your body rejects the implant. First, you should care for this dental prosthetic as you care for your natural teeth. Ensure you’re brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing once daily.
Second, try not to smoke because that can degrade the implant. Visit your dentist regularly to monitor your oral health, and wear a mouth guard at night if you tend to grind your teeth.
Signs Your Body Is Rejecting an Implant
There are plenty of signs and symptoms that help you tell if your body is rejecting a dental implant. Some early symptoms include persistent discomfort or pain, swelling, bleeding, gum recession, and an implant that feels loose or wobbly. Symptoms that come later if you fail to notice the early signs of rejection are protruding implants, foreign body rejection, nerve and tissue damage, and facial injury. If you notice these signs, speak to your cosmetic dentist immediately to correct the issue.
What To Expect After Removal
If you need corrective surgery, you should know what to expect after removing dental implants. The recovery process after removing these implants is very straightforward. You might experience some discomfort, but with antibiotics and a few appointments, your oral health should quickly return to normal. It is possible to replace your implant, but you must talk with your provider about the next steps because it varies depending on the patient.
It’s crucial that you understand what could go wrong after receiving surgery for dental implants because you need to prepare yourself in case the prosthetic fails. Do your best to follow all post-op instructions, and be wary of the signs and symptoms of rejection, so you can correct the issue as quickly as possible. Remember to keep in contact with your dentist to ensure your oral health remains in excellent condition.
