Failed Dental Implants
Current dental implant technologies and materials continue to develop at a strong pace. The procedure has become established as the procedure of choice when patients are faced with the decision to replace single or multiple teeth.
Most restorative and reconstructive dentists can suggest a variety of treatment plans and technologies for replacing any number of teeth. In terms of obtaining optimal restoration of aesthetic appearances and dental function (bite, occlusion, eating, speaking, etc), implants tend to be unsurpassed.
The success rate of implants is in the high ninety percent range. However, occasionally they do fail.
There are two types of failures: Early and Late:
Early Failures
This type of failure occurs shortly after the implants are placed. They can be caused by:
- overheating the bone
- too much force when they are placed
- not enough force when they are placed
- contaminated implant
- contaminated osteotomy
- epithilial cells in osteotomy site
- poor quality of bone
- excessive forces during osseointegration
- a myriad of other reasons
Late Failures
Generally caused by:
- excessive forces
- lateral loading
Selecting an Implant Dentist
Find an implant dentist who has had great success. Ask lots of questions. Ask to see photographs of before and after photos.
Implantology (placement of implants) is a very technically sensitive procedure. The training, skill and experience are key factors in the success of the procedure.
Prior to having the implant places the surgeon should explain everything to you. If you feel that you did not receive adequate information then wait until you are ready and informed.