Dental implant failure is rare, but it can happen in some situations. Factors like infection, injuries, and more can lead to this sad outcome. Have you been diagnosed with a failing implant? Your oral surgeon may recommend that it be completely removed. What can you expect from this process? While each person’s experience is a bit different, this blog post offers a general overview of the road ahead.
The Removal Surgery
You can expect to be comfortable during the implant removal surgery. Both local anesthesia and sedation can be used to make sure that you feel little to nothing as your care team works.
The details of the surgery vary depending on several factors, including where the implant is located, how long it has been in your body, and how much bone is still attached to it. Generally, implants in the lower arch that have been in place for more than two years are the most challenging to remove.
Your surgeon will use careful techniques with the goal of causing as little collateral bone damage as possible. The surgery might also involve a bone graft to help replace lost tissue and fortify your jaw.
What Happens Afterward?
The soft tissue at your surgical site should heal relatively quickly; you may feel normal within a week or two. However, it takes longer for the bone to heal. It may generate new tissue and integrate any grafted bone. This process often stretches on for several months.
Keep in mind that you might also need additional care. For example, if an infection led to dental implant failure, you may need antibiotics or additional oral procedures to manage the problem and prevent future infections.
Can You Get a New Implant?
Yes, it is often possible to place a new implant even after a previous one failed. This usually takes place 3 – 6 months after the removal surgery. Your surgical team will take every precaution to prevent the same situation that led to the initial failure. Of course, your careful compliance with their instructions will also play a role in whether your new implant succeeds.
Removing a failed implant can seem like a disappointing experience, but try to view it as a step in the right direction. There is still hope that you can enjoy a complete, strong, and healthy smile in the future.
Meet the Practice
At Piney Point Dental Implant Center, Dr. Steve Koo and our highly skilled team offer advanced implant services, including removal of failed implants. We also offer salvage services that can sometimes save an implant that is on the verge of failure. If you are concerned about your prosthetic teeth, we are ready to offer our professional guidance. Schedule an appointment by contacting our office in Houston at 713-597-7340.