What to Do with a Loose Dental Implant?

Dental implants are a reliable and durable solution for replacing missing teeth. However, on rare occasions, you may encounter an issue with a loose dental implant. In this blog, we share what you should do if you find yourself in this situation, including potential causes and steps for addressing it.

How a Dental Implant Works

A dental implant is a screw surgically placed in the jawbone. This screw is meant to replace missing teeth by acting as an artificial root. Over time, the screw and jawbone fuse together, providing a stable and long-lasting restoration.

However, sometimes, a loose dental implant can occur. A loose dental implant is one that is unstable and moves and requires prompt attention.

What Causes a Loose Dental Implant?

Several factors can contribute to a dental implant becoming loose like:

• Infection: Peri-implantitis is a condition similar to gum disease that can affect dental implants. It can lead to bone loss and implant instability.
• Insufficient Bone Density: In some cases, there may not be enough bone density to support the implant, leading to instability.
• Failed Osseointegration: In rare cases, the implant may not have fused properly with the jawbone during the healing process, resulting in instability.

How to Treat a Loose Implant

If you suspect you have a loose dental implant, here are the immediate steps to take:

• Avoid Excessive Force: Be gentle when chewing and avoid putting excessive pressure on the loose implant to prevent further movement.
• Maintain Oral Hygiene: Continue to brush and floss around the implant to prevent infection.
• Contact Your Dental Implant Dentist: It’s crucial to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible so a thorough examination can be completed to determine the cause of the instability.

Dental Implant Guidance in San Antonio, Texas

A loose dental implant is a concerning issue that will require prompt attention. At Chandler Dental Center, we offer dental implants and guidance on how to care for and address any issues you may encounter with an implant. If you’re experiencing what may be a loose implant, get in touch with our office!

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Categorised in: Dental Implants, Oral Health, Restorative Dentistry

This post was written by Chandler Dental Center