mayda Ferguson, DDS
Did you know that the dental implant procedure has an incredibly high success rate of over ninety percent? These replacement teeth are the only ones that include a biocompatible support rod that’s embedded into your jawbone, giving them added strength, stability, and resilience.
However, that doesn’t mean your restorations are invincible. Like any surgical procedure, there’s a slight risk of developing complications that cause them to fail. Continue reading to learn 3 indicators that your implant has a problem, so you know when to seek help!
Sign #1: Wiggling or Other Movement
It can take anywhere from three to six or more months to recover after this surgery because that’s usually how long it takes your jaw to generate enough new bone growth to fuse with it in a process called osseointegration.
If your jawbone is too thin or your mouth is unable to build enough new bone, your implant can become loose or destabilized. You should contact your dentist as soon as you notice that it feels wobbly or moves around when you eat or speak to avoid losing it altogether. They can examine your condition and suggest solutions, like a possible additional bone graft or other salvaging services.
Sign #2: Severe or Persistent Aches
You’ll be medicated for your procedure itself, so you won’t need to worry about developing aches or inflammation until after the fact. Then, it’s normal to experience mild to moderate swelling and soreness for several days as your mouth recovers. This typically peaks around the third day after your treatment then gradually subsides.
However, if you feel severe or persistent pain, especially when biting down, it could point to an underlying issue, like an infection or failed osseointegration. Your dentist can help identify and treat the root cause to provide some much-needed relief.
Sign #3: Sore or Swollen Gums
Did you know that the leading cause of failure is a pervasive form of gum disease known as peri-implantitis? If bacteria in your mouth penetrate the surgical site, they can erode the connective and bone tissues holding the support rod in place, leaving it without a firm enough foundation.
Potential indicators include tender, puffy, darkened, or bleeding gums. If you’re concerned about periodontal problems after your procedure, you should contact your dentist immediately to address it.
You’re not likely to experience complications after your dental implant procedure, but knowing the signs of possible failure can help you act quickly if something unexpected occurs!
Meet the Author
Dr. Mayda Ferguson is passionate about helping people of all ages improve their lives by enhancing their oral health. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry in New Orleans, then completed a General Practice Residency at the Veteran Affairs Medical Center. Today, she works diligently to provide a comprehensive menu of services to meet all your needs, including dental implants. She partners with local specialists to ensure accurate placement, then utilizes state-of-the-art technology to provide a lifelike restoration to close the space in your smile. You can request an appointment on the website or call (504) 833-2220.
