Dental Implant Moving
What should you do if your Dental Implant is moving? A dental implant is no small thing; it involves a long process, considerable expense, and it is imperative to your dental surgery. If after this process you discover your dental implant is moving or loose, you should consult with your implant team. This could be evidence of a failure of the anchor, a problem in your jaw, a failure of the implant, or any other number of other dilemmas. You should schedule an appointment with your Dental Implant team to assess the situation. If a piece of your dental implant has become unattached, do your best to save it. You do not want to swallow a piece of your implant, and you do not want to have to pay for a new one to be remade.
Reasons why your Implant is Loose
The Abutment screw needs to be tightened- The abutment is a small piece that is attached to the anchor. The abutment connects your implant to your anchor. If this screw has come loose it will cause the implant to wiggle and move in your mouth. It could even become loose enough that the implant detaches. If the abutment is the cause, it is a fairly easy process to remove the implant and re-tighten the screw. Some synthetic implants even come with a small hole in order to access the abutment screw without complete removal.
Healing Cap- While your anchor heals and integrates into your jaw, or shortly after, a metal cap may be attached to it. This healing cap prevents your gums from growing over the access to the anchor. If the healing cap is loose, it is easy to reattach. If the healing cap comes undone, you must save it so it can be reattached promptly to protect your gums and anchor.
Cracked or Damaged Anchor- If your anchor is damaged in a way that prevents it from screwing back into the anchor or abutment, it may need to be replaced. A fractured implant typically cannot be saved. A damaged abutment or anchor could also be the problem. Even though all of these are made of very durable materials, they can occasionally crack under the biting force.
Gum Disease or Temporomandibular Jaw Disorder (TMJ)- It is possible that complications have arisen from either gum disease or TMJ that have loosened the tissue around your implant. TMJ issues can effect your jaw and gums, and gum disease can cause inflammation that pulls your gums off of your teeth or anchor.
Signs that your Implant is moving
Obviously if your implant is wiggling in your mouth, that is the first sign of concern. Here are several others to consider if your Implant is getting loose.
-Are your gums in pain? Pain in your gums, redness, or swelling could all be signs that your implant is having problems. It could be pain from deep in your jaw where your anchor is integrated, or an infection festering just below the gumline.
-Are your gums bleeding? Bleeding gums can be caused by many different problems. The most common is infection or disease, but it could also be a broken tooth or root problems.
-Are you having problems chewing? Clicks in your jaw, pain while chewing, or uneven chewing can all be signs of a problem with your implant.
-Is it a crown or cap? Has the implant come unattached? If you have a crown or cap, you will have an exposed tooth underneath. You will be able to tell if it is coming loose due to sharp sensations from the exposed original tooth.
What should I do if I notice an Implant coming loose?
Make the appointment sooner rather than later. Resist the urge to “play” with the toot; push against it with your tongue. This is a surefire way to worsen the problem and expedite the loosening. If the implant is loose, but relatively secured in your mouth, it should be much easier to reattach. Talk with your dentist on the phone while you await your appointment, and consult about how to care for the area and ask questions.
What should I do if my implant has come undone?
If any piece of your implant has completely come removed, you must do your best to save it for your dental care team. Having the implant piece will allow them to better diagnose where the failure occurred mechanically. It can also save you money, as many implant problems can be fixed using the original implant. You do not want to swallow or bite down on one of these very durable materials, it could cause further tooth damage. See your Dentist or care team as soon as possible. Contact them first and explain what has happened, and what level of pain you are experiencing. It may need to be resolved later, but if there is immediate pain they may be able to prescribe something to help you. They may also have advice for how to care for the area until your appointment.
What will happen next?
At your appointment your dental care team will do everything they can to make sure you are comfortable and informed about the process. They will either reattach the implant, or discuss replacement options with you. You may also choose to contact your insurance while you await your appointment to discuss what coverage looks like for replacing dental implants.
If your care team is able to rescue your implant or anchor, you are back in business. They may recommend some treatment, prescription medication, or care routine updates to ensure this problem does not occur again.
If they cannot reattach your implant, you may need a replacement one. Options are varied and comprehensive, and no matter what there is a way to replace your implant. Discuss what kinds of materials are available, what failed on the original implant, and what you all can do as a team to make sure your next implant is perfect and long lasting.