Treating Failing Dental Implants
A failing dental implant does not always need to be removed. The first step is determining why the implant is failing and how much damage has occurred around it.
At Orange County Oral Surgery & Periodontics, Dr. Jin Eslami evaluates failing and infected dental implants to determine whether an implant can be treated and maintained or whether removal and replacement is the better long-term option. Treatment is tailored to the health of the surrounding gum and bone, the stability and position of the implant, and your individual needs.
What Causes a Dental Implant to Fail?
Dental implants can develop problems for several reasons. One of the most common is peri-implantitis, an inflammatory condition involving the gum and supporting bone around an implant.
Other causes may include:
- Plaque and bacterial buildup around the implant
- Progressive bone loss
- Failure of the implant to properly integrate with the jawbone
- Excessive or uneven bite forces
- Implant positioning or restorative concerns
- Smoking or certain medical conditions
- A history of periodontal disease
Identifying the underlying cause is essential before determining the appropriate treatment.
Can a Failing Dental Implant Be Saved?
In certain cases, yes.
When an implant remains stable and the surrounding bone loss is limited, treatment may focus on controlling the inflammation and preserving the implant.
Depending on the condition of the implant, treatment may include:
- Thorough cleaning and debridement of the implant surface
- Antimicrobial therapy when appropriate
- Treatment of the surrounding gum and bone
- Laser-assisted therapy in selected cases
- Bite adjustment to reduce excessive forces
- Surgical treatment and bone regeneration when indicated
The goal is to eliminate or control the disease process and create an environment that can be maintained over the long term.
When Does a Dental Implant Need to Be Removed?
When bone loss is advanced, infection cannot be predictably controlled, or the implant has become loose, removal may be the most appropriate treatment.
The implant can be carefully removed and the area thoroughly cleaned. If significant bone has been lost, bone grafting may be performed to rebuild the site and prepare it for future treatment.
After healing, Dr. Eslami can determine whether another dental implant can be placed and the appropriate timing for treatment. In some cases, additional bone grafting or a different treatment approach may be recommended.
Signs Your Dental Implant Should Be Evaluated
Dental implant problems do not always cause significant pain. You should have an implant evaluated if you notice:
- Bleeding around the implant
- Red or swollen gums
- Gum recession
- Drainage or a bad taste
- Discomfort when chewing
- Increasing food trapping around the implant
- Visible changes around the implant
- Looseness of the implant or implant-supported tooth
Early evaluation may provide more treatment options and can help limit additional bone loss.
Why See a Periodontist for a Failing Dental Implant?
Managing a failing implant requires evaluating not only the implant itself but also the gum tissue, supporting bone, bite, and surrounding teeth.
Dr. Eslami will evaluate the extent and cause of the problem and explain whether the implant may be treated or whether removal and reconstruction provide a more predictable long-term solution.
Our goal is to give you a clear understanding of your condition and your treatment options so you can make an informed decision about your care.
Schedule a Consultation for a Failing Dental Implant
If you are experiencing bleeding, swelling, discomfort, bone loss, or looseness around a dental implant, having it evaluated early is important.
Contact Orange County Oral Surgery & Periodontics at 949-888-0332 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jin Eslami.
Whether your implant can be treated or needs to be removed and replaced, we will help you understand your options and develop a treatment plan focused on restoring your oral health.