Dental implants are usually made of titanium alloy, a strong material that tends to work well within the human body. However, not all people have the same reaction to it. In rare cases, patients’ bodies reject their dental implants! Why does that happen, how can you tell if your body is rejecting your implants, and how can an oral surgeon help you manage the situation? This blog post explains.
Why Does Dental Implant Rejection Occur?
The definition of dental implant rejection depends on whom you ask. Some may define it as early dental implant failure, which can occur when the bone around an implant fails to bond with it. This is otherwise known as failed osseointegration. It often occurs due to an infection or underlying medical conditions.
Other experts may say that rejection occurs due to a metal allergy or sensitivity. This can trigger an inflammatory allergic response wherein the body attempts to isolate and expel the implant. Although allergies to titanium are incredibly rare, they can occur in isolated cases.
Signs of Dental Implant Rejection
Understanding the signs of dental implant rejection is crucial if you want to address the issue promptly.
- Persistent discomfort or pain that worsens over time instead of improving after surgery may indicate improper integration of the implant with the jawbone.
- Swelling or redness around the implant site, particularly if severe or worsening, could signal an infection or rejection.
- A feeling of looseness or instability in the implant may be a sign of rejection or failure.
- Bleeding around the implant site, difficulty chewing, or the development of pus are possible indicators of infection or rejection.
- Systemic symptoms, such as yellow nail syndrome, might indicate a serious problem with your implants, possibly even a titanium allergy.
How Should You Address Dental Implant Rejection?
If you suspect that you are experiencing dental implant rejection, you should schedule an appointment with your oral surgeon as soon as possible. Prompt evaluation is necessary to identify the underlying cause of the issue and determine the appropriate course of action.
Your oral surgeon may begin by examining the implant site and reviewing your symptoms. Diagnostic tests, such as X-rays or CT scans, can help assess the condition of the implant and the surrounding bone. If an infection is present, your surgeon may prescribe antibiotics or recommend a cleaning procedure to eliminate bacteria.
In cases where the rejection is caused by an allergy or immune response, the implant may need to be removed. Your surgeon will discuss alternative options with you, such as using a different material for the implant or exploring other tooth replacement solutions like bridges or dentures.
Dental implant rejection and failure are both rare, but you should still know the signs! Monitor your oral health and take action at the first sign of a problem.
Meet the Practice
Piney Point Dental Implant Center is home to three highly skilled oral surgeons, all of whom are proud to serve the Houston community. We offer a range of services, including dental implant placement and salvage for problematic implants. To learn more about how we may be able to serve you, contact our office at 713-597-7340.