Dental Implants Restoration
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, by the age of 44, an estimated 69 percent of Americans have lost at least one tooth. Tooth loss is growing, and the need for solutions is growing with it. Dental implants offer a popular and effective alternative to dentures, providing a solution that closely resembles natural teeth. Although dental implants are designed to last for decades, they still require maintenance, which is where implant restoration comes in. Dental implant restoration involves restoring the strength, appearance, and function of a dental implant that has become loose, damaged, or experienced complications.
What to do if Your Implant Fails
If your dental implant fails, meaning it doesn’t integrate properly with the surrounding bone or there are complications post-placement, you should come in as soon as possible. We will assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action. Here is an example of a treatment plan we might take for dental implant restoration in a more extreme circumstance:
- Evaluation: The dentist will thoroughly evaluate the failed implant using X-rays, CT scans, or other imaging tests to assess the condition of the implant and surrounding bone.
- Removal: In some cases, the failed implant may need to be removed. This can typically be done through a surgical procedure similar to the initial placement of the implant.
- Bone Grafting: If there is insufficient bone to support a new implant, bone grafting may be necessary to augment the bone volume.
- Implant Replacement: Once the site has healed and sufficient bone volume is restored, a new implant can be placed.
- Monitoring and Follow-Up: After the replacement implant is in place, the dentist will closely monitor the healing process and may recommend regular follow-up appointments to ensure the implant is integrating properly and there are no complications.
What Causes Dental Implant Failure?
Treat a loose implant as a dental emergency, as it can lead to bone loss and infection, and any type of damage can worsen if ignored. Call our team right away if an implant becomes loose or damaged. Here are some examples of circumstances that prompt the need for dental implant restorations:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: It is essential to practice a consistent oral hygiene routine that includes brushing several times each day, flossing, using mouthwash, and being mindful of any issues with the mouth.
- Fracturization: If a dental implant is fractured, a dentist will need to remove the broken pieces and replace the implant.
- Looseness: Gum recession, gum disease, and failure of the dental implant to stabilize the jaw are just a few examples of what could cause a loose implant. That is why it is crucial to seek prompt assistance when an implant is loose.
- Worn-Down: Though dental implants can last decades, they are still prone to damage due to aging or issues such as teeth grinding.
- Cosmetic Concerns: Cosmetic issues such as discoloration can be improved through implant restoration as well.
Loose and Fractured Implants
If the crown is loose or broken or the abutment that joins it to the implant is loose, it is more likely to be an easy fix. However, if the implant post is loose or fractured, it must be removed and replaced, which can be more complex. The same goes for a loose implant post, but there are cases where the crown may be reused on the new implant. If you have had bone loss, you may need bone grafting and time to heal before receiving the new implant.
Implant Restoration Procedure
When replacing a dental implant, the current implant is typically removed and replaced with a screw-retained or cement-retained restoration. These are the two primary types of dental implant restorations. According to FOR.org, complication rates of both are nearly identical at around 3%. A screw-retained restoration provides secure retention and is easy to tighten if it becomes loose, but it may not be as cosmetically pleasing. Many consider cement-retained restorations to be more attractive, but they are often more difficult to adjust if issues with the implant develop. Our team can help you decide which type is best suited to you.
After the procedure
There is typically some discomfort and swelling following an implant restoration and aftercare instructions to follow. To speed up recovery and avoid irritation of the affected area, we advise you not only stick to a soft diet of healthy foods but also avoid beverages high in sugar, tobacco products, and smoking. Drinking water consistently throughout the day can also help prevent an oral infection or another oral health concern. For dental implants, patients should use a low-abrasion toothpaste along with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Special flosses and interdental brushes can make it easier to keep your dental implants clean and the area around them healthy. We may prescribe pain medications and antibiotics to reduce your recovery time or chance of infection. Patients are often required to make routine follow-up visits as well.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implant restoration can help you feel like yourself again with permanent results that can last a lifetime. These implants are custom-made to look natural and match your teeth, ensuring they blend seamlessly within your smile. Created from porcelain or ceramic, they offer exceptional strength and durability. Best of all, maintaining your new implants doesn’t require any changes to your regular dental hygiene routine, allowing you to continue brushing and flossing as usual while enjoying a restored, confident smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What causes the need for dental implant restoration?
A. Complications from bone grafting, maxillary arch implants, and improper implant placement may necessitate restoration. If issues arise with the implant’s look, feel, or function, consider a restoration.
Q. Is dental implant restoration painful?
A. There may be some discomfort around the restoration area, but overall, the procedure involves less discomfort and recovery time than the initial implant placement.
Q. How long does a dental implant restoration last?
A. Results can last for years, if not decades. Proper home care and frequent dental visits are crucial to making an implant restoration last.
Q. How do I make a full recovery following dental implant restoration?
A. Soft foods such as oatmeal, yogurt, soup, and cooked vegetables help avoid irritation during recovery. Over-the-counter pain relievers may be recommended by your doctor.
Q. Which type of implant restoration is better, screw-retained or cement-retained?
A. This depends on your needs and preferences. Screw-retained restorations are easier to tighten and have better retention. Cement-retained restorations are more cosmetically appealing but harder to adjust if complications arise.
Dental Implant Terminology
- Abutment: Component that attaches to the dental implant for crown placement.
- Bridge: Multiple replacement teeth fixed in place via attachment to implants or natural teeth.
- Dental Crown: Artificial tooth covering the implant.
- Dental Implant: Artificial tooth root placed into the jaw.
- Endosteal: Type of implant placed in the alveolar and basal bone.
- Eposteal: Implant conforming to the edentulous surface of the alveolar bone.
- Implant-Supported Bridge: Bridge fixed in place with dental implants.
- Osseointegration: Process of titanium implant fusing with surrounding bone.
- Periodontal: Relating to the structures around the tooth.
- Resorption: Body absorbing calcium from the jaw due to lack of tooth roots.
- Transosteal: Implant with threaded posts penetrating the jawbone.
