A dental implant is a dependable way to replace a missing tooth. While some implants may loosen or fail under certain conditions, most implants work well for many years when the gums and bone remain healthy. The key is to recognize the warning signs of trouble early and to support this smile restoration with excellent care.
A dental implant is a metal post, often titanium, that a dentist places right into the jawbone to help replace one or more missing teeth. This metal post fuses with the bone, becoming an artificial tooth root and a strong foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture. As a result, the final smile restoration can support normal biting and chewing with impressive stability. Many patients describe the sensation as nearly identical to that of a natural tooth.
An implant-supported crown, bridge, or denture could fall out. The implant itself, however, is secured beneath the gums, so it is not likely to pop out of the mouth. Unfortunately, it can still loosen and break free from the jawbone. This condition is known as implant failure.
An implant can fail early due to improper healing, preventing it from fully fusing with the bone. Alternatively, it may fail years later due to peri-implantitis (gum disease around the implant). Overloading the implant, such as from teeth grinding or an uneven bite, is another leading cause of failure.
The good news is that implant failure is preventable. Choosing a dentist experienced in implant placement and maintenance can help patients avoid it. Practicing good oral hygiene also supports success with implants.
Sometimes, the problem is not with the implant itself but with the crown, bridge, or denture. These visible components of an implant system can become damaged, shift, or detach without the underlying implant failing. A quick evaluation usually identifies the exact part that needs attention. The dentist can then quickly provide repairs or replacements, so the patient can return to their daily routine.
Most patients notice small warning signs before a dental implant becomes seriously unstable. These include:
Addressing these symptoms early helps prevent the problem from worsening and supports a functional, comfortable bite for years to come.
A few daily habits can help prevent problems with dental implants. For example, consistent oral hygiene makes a big difference in the longevity of an implant. Patients must brush and floss carefully to keep the gumline free of plaque. It is also important to avoid overloading the restoration, such as by biting nails, chewing on ice, or using the teeth to open packages. Finally, regular dental appointments allow a dentist to deep clean the whole smile and spot any implant-related issues as soon as possible.
A dental implant can support a stable tooth replacement when properly cared for. With strategic placement and regular checkups, a dentist can also help an implant last a lifetime. Contact DeSalvo Dental for more information.
Request an appointment here: https://www.desalvodental.com or call DeSalvo Dental at (201) 244-7658 for an appointment in our Englewood office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants in Englewood, NJ.
Losing a tooth can impact both how your mouth functions and how your smile looks, making it important to find the right replacement. Dental implants are the preferred tooth replacement due to their natural look and feel. Offered by general, family, and cosmetic dentists, implants support long-term oral health and help patients feel more confident…
There has been a lot of talk about dental implants in recent years. Dentists recommend them, and patients benefit from the results of the treatment. Implants restore the full function of the mouth and revitalize smiles. People can enjoy newfound self-esteem and the self-image and health they have been looking for. You may wonder whether…
Dental implants are highly recommended when it comes to replacing missing teeth. They are the only oral prosthetics that replace teeth and their roots. Other prosthetics like dentures and bridges simply replace the visible part of the tooth.Implants are surgically placed in the patient’s jaw and left there to fuse with surrounding bone tissues. The…
When a patient has dental implants, follow-up visits are important. Many patients need to have replacement teeth for a variety of reasons. You may have gotten them because you lost several teeth due to a traumatic accident, or you may have been on medication that caused your teeth to deteriorate. Regardless of how you lost your…
Finding the right dentist is a win for your future oral health.
If you want to know if orthodontic treatment from a cosmetic dentist is the right…
The right general dentist provides the essential care necessary to keep a smile healthy and…
Here is what you can expect from clear aligner therapy with an Invisalign dentist.
Periodontics care is necessary when something is wrong with the gums and other soft tissues.
Has it been years since your last dental office visit? No matter what kept you…
