Dental implants are one of the most reliable and durable tooth replacement options, but what if your implant becomes loose? A loose implant can be concerning, but it does not mean the implant is lost. With prompt attention, a loose dental implant can be saved.
Is a Loose Dental Implant Unusual
Having a loose dental implant is an infrequent yet common issue that may come up if you have chosen an implant for a restoration. There are several reasons why your dental implant might be loose, and most of them have nothing to do with the dental implant failing.
If your dental implant feels loose, it could be a sign of another issue in your mouth, and it is something you should see your dentist about.
If you notice your dental implant might seem loose, call your dentist so they can determine the underlying cause.
Symptoms of a Dental Implant Failure
An early or late-stage dental implant failure can be determined by one of the following complications:
- Chewing becomes more difficult.
- Gums are swollen or inflamed.
- Unusual gum recession.
- When you can feel the loosening of the dental implant.
- Increased discomfort or pain levels.
These signs are not exclusive to implant failure, but with any of the above symptoms, you should schedule an evaluation of your implant.
Why Do Implants Become Loose
A dental implant might become loose for several reasons. One common cause is jawbone loss around the implant. This could happen if the surrounding bone does not completely integrate with the implant, leading to instability. Gum disease is another potential cause since infections will weaken the tissues and bone that support the implant. Any trauma, grinding your teeth, bruxism, or an issue with the restoration, the crown or bridge, could also contribute to a loose implant.
Understanding How a Dental Implant Works
In the most basic sense, a dental implant is a tiny titanium post that is surgically placed into your jawbone to serve as an artificial tooth root. Your restoration that goes on top of your dental implant will depend on how many teeth you are replacing.
For a single tooth, an artificial dental crown is attached to your implant.
For more than one tooth, you might have a dental bridge installed or even a full arch denture attached to dental implants.
If Your Dental Implant is Loose, What Can Be Done?
A loose dental implant does not always need to be removed. If the issue is with either the crown or abutment, the extension that connects the crown to the implant, your dentist can fix or tighten these components without affecting the dental implant itself. If there is an issue with the dental implant itself, your dentist will evaluate the surrounding jawbone and gums to determine the proper course of action.
If the restoration crown came off, a simple re-cement of that crown is all that is needed. However, if the dental implant in the jawbone is loose, then your dental implant has failed. It will have to be removed and replaced.
It is essential to see your dentist to identify the cause of a loose dental implant restoration. Delaying an examination may result in a more difficult solution.