Can Dental Implants Fail? What You Should Know

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), dentists place more than 5 million dental implants on an annual basis. People opt for implants for so many obvious reasons; these replacement teeth are more like natural teeth, restore chewing power, and boost self-confidence. One of the biggest concerns patients have when they visit us at Allen Dental about dental implants is if the procedure can fail. Here is a look at a few general questions and answers you should know as you make a decision about dental implants for yourself.

How can you ensure your implants do not fail?

It is actually quite rare for dental implants to fail. However, in many cases when problems arise, it is due to a lapse in proper care directly after the procedure. Once the implant is placed, the healing process begins. It is at this time that the implant fuses to the bone, so it is critical that you follow your dentist’s guidance about aftercare.

Is it possible for a dental implant to fail later?

Beyond the initial healing period, implants can fail later in life. The implants do occasionally fail simply due to age or deterioration of supportive bone. However, failure can also arise if:

• You are not vigilant about your oral health
• You develop gum disease that goes untreated
• You are not following good dental hygiene practices at home

How do you know if a dental implant is failing?

Contact your dentist right away if you experience any of the following with your dental implant:

• Pain and discomfort around the implant after the healing period
• Swollen, inflamed, or bleeding gums
• Looseness or shifting of the implant
• Receding gum tissue around the implant

Find Out More About Dental Implants in West Salem

When you work with a reputable dentist, follow the guidance on aftercare, and take good care of your oral health, dental implants can last for many years. If you are interested in learning more about dental implants in West Salem, reach out to us at Allen Dental to schedule an appointment.