Dental implants are becoming increasingly popular due to their many benefits over traditional tooth replacement methods. Their durability and natural look and feel make them an excellent choice for those who are missing teeth. However, they are not perfect, and occasionally they will fail. Therefore, if you are one of the millions of people who have had a dental implant, it’s important to be aware of the signs of implant failure. In this blog post, we will discuss four signs of dental implant failure. We’ll also give you some tips on reducing the likelihood of implant failure.
1) Persistent Pain and/or Swelling Around the Implant Site
While it is normal to have some pain and/or swelling immediately after dental implant surgery, this should go away within a few days. So, if you experience pain and/or swelling that persists or gets worse, this could be a sign of implant failure.
2) Changes in the Implant Site
Another sign of dental implant failure is changes in the appearance of the implant site. This could include redness, inflammation, or pus coming from the area around your implant. These changes could be a sign of infection, which is a common cause of implant failure.
3) Loose or Wobbly Implant
If your dental implant feels loose or wobbly, this is definitely a sign that something is wrong. This could be caused by anything from infection to bone loss around the implant. Regardless of the cause, a loose or wobbly implant needs to be seen by a dentist right away.
4) Changes in Your Overall Oral Health
Changes in your oral health could also be a sign of dental implant failure. This could include changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite down or changes in your bite. If you notice any changes in your oral health, be sure to see your dentist to rule out implant failure.
Tips for Preventing Dental Implant Failure
There are several things you can do to reduce the likelihood of dental implant failure. Let’s take a closer look at your options below.
Quit Smoking
Smoking can certainly lead to dental implant failure. That’s because smoking increases your risk of infection and bone loss. If you smoke and are considering dental implants, you may want to consider quitting before surgery.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is essential for the success of dental implants. That’s because implants are susceptible to the same problems as natural teeth, like decay and gum disease. Be sure to brush and floss your teeth twice a day and see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
Eat a Healthy Diet
Your diet plays a role in your oral health. That’s why it’s important to eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. You’ll also want to limit sugary and acidic foods, as they can contribute to tooth decay.
The Bottom Line
Dental implants are a great option for those missing teeth. However, they are not perfect and can occasionally fail. Be sure to be aware of the signs of implant failure and take steps to reduce your risk. And if you think you may be experiencing implant failure, be sure to see your dentist right away!
Need to see someone about dental implants? No problem! Click here to get in touch with Shelburne Village Dental today.