Dental implants are successful in the vast majority of cases, but if you’re experiencing trouble with one, don’t panic – help is available. An implant might fail due to peri-implantitis (infection in the gum and bone around the implant) or other factors like poor initial healing or excessive pressure on the implant. Fortunately, many issues can be addressed if caught early, a process we call implant salvage.
Signs of a potential implant problem include unusual pain long after the implant was placed, looseness (feeling like the implant or crown is wiggling), or inflamed gums around the implant (redness, swelling, bleeding, or discharge). Difficulty chewing on that tooth or persistent bad taste could also signal a problem. If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s important to contact us promptly.
At Horsham Dental Care, Dr. Aarti Lala and our surgical team will evaluate the implant with an exam and 3D imaging to determine the cause. In many cases, we can treat an infection by cleaning the area and prescribing antibiotics, or fix a bite issue by adjusting the restoration. Our goal is to save the implant whenever possible. If the implant has lost too much bone support and must be removed, we can plan for a replacement. This may involve a bone graft to restore the area, then placing a new implant once healed. We’ll discuss all your options with you so you can make an informed decision.
Don’t give up on your smile. If you suspect a dental implant is failing or feels off, contact our Horsham office right away to schedule an appointment. We welcome patients from Horsham, North Wales, Willow Grove, Ambler, and surrounding areas for expert implant care. Our team will do everything we can to restore your oral health and confidence in your implant.