Dental implants can last decades but might require some professional maintenance or repair. An implant repair returns a loose or damaged implant to its original stable form and function. It is more common to need some implant repair than you might anticipate.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and additional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 91% of adults aged 20 to 64 have had cavities, and 27% had untreated tooth decay, which leads to tooth loss. Yet tooth decay is not the only factor that will lead to tooth loss because gum disease is another common cause. Many people also lose teeth from trauma. An estimated 69 percent of Americans by the age of 44 have lost at least one tooth. Tooth loss is significant.
An extremely popular and successful solution is a dental implant. They offer an alternative to appliances that need to be removed and cleaned. Dental implants give you the option that most closely resembles your natural teeth. Though dental implants are designed to last decades, they still must be maintained, and that is where implant repair comes in. Dental implant repair includes restoring the strength, appearance, and function of a dental implant that has become loose, damaged, or experienced another complication.
When Dental Implant Restoration is Necessary
Dental implant repair involves restoring the strength, appearance, and functionality of a dental implant that has become loose or damaged. When you have an issue with a dental implant, it is best to seek assistance from your dentist. Here are some examples of issues that prompt the need for dental implant restorations:
- Poor Oral Hygiene- It is essential to exercise a consistent oral hygiene routine, which includes brushing twice a day, flossing, using mouthwash, and remaining mindful of issues with your mouth.
- Fractured Dental Implant- If a dental implant is fractured, your dentist will need to remove the broken pieces and replace the implant.
- Loose Dental Implant- Gum recession, gum disease, or failure of the dental implant to fuse and bond with the jawbone are just a few examples of what may cause a loose implant. That is why it is so important to seek prompt assistance from your dentist when an implant is loose.
- Worn-Down Implant- Dental implants can last decades, but they are still prone to damage from aging or issues such as teeth grinding and clenching.
- Cosmetic Concerns- Cosmetic issues, like any discoloration, can be improved through implant repair as well.
Overview of the Implant Repair Procedure
Each restoration procedure is unique. If issues develop with your dental implant, making repair necessary, your dentist will conduct an extensive oral exam to determine the severity of the issue and the primary cause. Your dentist might recommend other treatments, like gum disease treatment, bone grafting, or gum grafting.
When repairing a dental implant, the existing implant is usually removed and replaced with a screw-retained or cement-retained restoration. These are the two primary kinds of dental implant restorations. A screw-retained restoration provides secure retention and is easy to tighten if loose, but it might not be as cosmetically pleasing. Cement-retained restorations seem to be more attractive, yet they can be more difficult to adjust if issues develop. Your dentist will help you decide which are your best options.