Dental Implant Failure & Implant Complication Evaluation
A painful, loose or problematic dental implant does not automatically mean the same thing in every patient.
The first step is identifying whether the problem involves the implant itself, bone, gum tissue, bite,
implant position, restorative components or a combination of factors.
Why Dental Implants Can Develop Problems
Implant complications can develop during healing or after an implant has been in function.
A careful evaluation is needed before deciding whether the implant can be maintained, restored, repaired or replaced.
Biologic Problems
Bone loss, inflammation, infection or poor integration can affect implant stability and surrounding tissues.
Mechanical Problems
Loose screws, damaged crowns, fractured components or excessive bite forces can affect the restoration above the implant.
Position & Planning
Implant position, angulation, available bone and restorative design may influence long-term function and maintainability.
When Should an Existing Implant Be Evaluated?
Some symptoms can come from the restoration while others may involve the implant or surrounding tissues.
An examination helps distinguish between them.
- A loose implant crown or bridge
- Pain or discomfort around an implant
- Bleeding, swelling or drainage
- Changes in the bite
- Food trapping or difficulty cleaning
- Visible gum or bone changes
- A restoration that looks or feels different
- An implant that feels mobile
Understand the Implant, Bone and Anatomy Before Planning Revision Treatment
When appropriate, three-dimensional imaging can help evaluate implant position, surrounding bone and nearby anatomy.
Existing radiographs, surgical records and implant-system information can also be useful when available.
Not Every Implant Problem Requires Implant Removal
The appropriate next step depends on what is actually causing the problem.
Restore or Repair
Some problems are limited to the crown, screw, abutment or prosthetic component.
Manage the Bite
Occlusal forces and restorative contacts may need evaluation and adjustment.
Treat the Site
Bone or soft-tissue concerns may require treatment before restorative decisions are made.
Revision or Replacement
If an implant cannot be maintained, removal, healing, grafting or replacement may be considered depending on the case.
You Can Still Request an Evaluation
If another provider placed your implant, bring any implant records, X-rays, manufacturer information,
previous treatment plans and surgical records you have available.
Before Replacing Everything, Clarify What Has Failed
A failed crown, loose component or local tissue problem is different from a truly mobile or non-integrated implant.
Diagnosis should come before a major treatment decision.
Dental Implant Failure FAQs
Does a loose implant crown mean the implant failed?
Not necessarily. The problem may involve the crown, screw, abutment, bite or another restorative component. The implant and restoration should be evaluated.
Can a failed dental implant be replaced?
Sometimes. Replacement depends on the cause of failure, the condition of the bone and tissues, healing, anatomy and the restorative plan.
Can bone grafting be required after implant failure?
Yes, in some cases bone loss at the implant site may need to be addressed before another implant is considered.
Can you treat an implant placed by another dentist?
Existing implants placed elsewhere can often be evaluated. Records and implant-system information are useful when available but are not required to schedule an examination.
What should I do if my implant feels mobile?
A mobile implant should be professionally evaluated rather than ignored. The cause and condition of the surrounding tissues need to be determined.
Request an Implant Complication Evaluation
Dr. Robert Thein evaluates implant complications, failed implants and existing implant restorations for patients from La Crescenta, Glendale and surrounding communities.