If your newly placed dental implants feel loose, this is truly concerning, but do not panic. Prosthetic teeth are one of the most reliable solutions for missing teeth. They fit all age groups whose bone structure has fully developed. Although a dental implant in Chandler is a permanent fix, it requires prompt medical attention if it ever feels loose. Keeping it untreated increases the possibility of bone loss, gum recession, and implant failure. Are you dealing with the same cause? This guide will help you understand the reasons and what should be your next steps to prevent the damage from progressing.
Understanding What Might Be Coming Loose
Dislodged dental implants in Chandler do not always indicate that the treatment itself is failing. To understand the core issue, you must first comprehend the parts that work together.
The Implant Post
This is the titanium piece placed into the jawbone. It fuses with the bone through an osseointegration process and acts as the root of your new tooth.
The Abutment
It is a small metal connector that sits on top of the implant, linking it to the artificial tooth (crown, bridge, or denture). The abutment extends above the gumline, offering a sturdy overall stability.
The Crown
The crown is the visible, final tooth-shaped cap placed on top. It functions and appears similar to natural teeth, allowing one to eat, chew, and speak with ease.
Often, the issue lies with a loose crown or abutment, both of which can usually be addressed without major treatment.
Common Reasons For Tooth Implant Feeling Unstable And Moving
Once the artificial tooth roots integrate with the bone, they do not move. Patients undergo this treatment because it restores oral health and aesthetics. Rare, but if you feel instability, it could be due to the following reasons:
Non-Integration: When Bone And Implant Fail To Bond
Osseointegration is the biological process where the prosthetic teeth fuse securely with the jawbone, creating a stable foundation. The success of this phase is crucial to withstand biting and chewing forces. When the process is disrupted, you might feel them slightly moving under pressure. Factors affecting osseointegration include:
- Inadequate Bone Density: Bone deficiency reduces the implant’s ability to anchor firmly.
- Medical Conditions Impacting Healing: Uncontrolled diabetes or osteoporosis slows the healing process, which affects integration.
- Lifestyle Factors Like Smoking: Tobacco use significantly impairs blood flow, hindering the bonding process.
- Infections Near Surgical Area: Gum infections and abscesses weaken the surrounding oral health, compromising stability.
Peri-Implantitis Infection And Soft Tissue Damage
Peri-implantitis is a pathological condition similar to advanced gum disease but occurs specifically around implanted teeth. It involves bacterial infection of the gum and bone, affecting the soft and hard mouth tissues. The bone supporting the prosthesis deteriorates, leading to bone loss and a loosening effect. Contributing factors include:
- Poor oral hygiene and plaque accumulation.
- Pre-existing gum disease or untreated periodontal issues.
- Lack of periodical professional cleanings.
- Maintaining meticulous oral hygiene is essential and the best preventive measure to stop peri-implantitis from occurring.
Structural Problems With Implant Abutments And Crowns
Diagnosis has sometimes shown that while the implant post remains secure in the bone, mechanical issues in the hardware create problems.
- Loose Abutment Screws: The abutment screws becomes loose with years of usage or exerting excessive pressure.
- Crown Damage Or Fracture: Cracks, fractures, or worn-out crowns can destabilize your bite and give the impression of looseness.
- Rare Implant Fracture: Though uncommon, severe trauma or extreme occlusal forces can fracture the fixture itself.
Excessive Bite Pressure On The Fixed Dental Prosthetics
Applying extreme bite forces on the restoration appliance beyond its capacity to withstand the pressure causes occlusal overload. It sabotages the components that increase the risks of bone loss and implant-associated infections. These are the probable reasons:
- Bruxism (Teeth Grinding And Clenching): Habitual grinding habits can cause excessive stress on artificial tooth roots.
- Misaligned Bite (Malocclusion): Uneven bite forces distribute pressure poorly across the oral structure.
- Heavy Chewing Forces: Improper placement of tooth implants, especially in the molar areas, endures stronger chewing forces, triggering the risk.
Warning Signs Of Implant Loosening And Crown Issues
If you notice these signs, know that you need immediate dentist Chandler help without a day’s delay. So, after getting your tooth restored, watch out for:
- A feeling of discomfort and pain while biting.
- Inflammation and swelling around the surgical area.
- Receding gums that expose the metal threads.
- An infection with a bad taste and a lousy smell.
Precautionary Steps Before Scheduling An Appointment With An Implant Specialist
- Stay calm to asses the condition because most conditions are tretable with timely evaluation.
- Try not to apply hyped DIY methods to tighten the implant or the crown. It can lead to irreversible damage.
- Gently touch the crown to understand if the central fixture is secure.
- Maintain top-notch oral hygiene until your slot is scheduled.
- Adjust your diet with soft foods to avoid extra stress on the damaged part.
- Immediately seek help from an implant specialist for early evaluation and effective treatment.
How Does A Chandler Dentist Treat Unstable Permanent Tooth Replacements?
When you address your restoration appliance’s lack of steadiness, the professional will first diagnose the root cause. Results displaying problems with the crown or the fixture’s components, it will simply follow a procedure of crown replacement and screw tightening.
However, extensive procedures will be involved if the looseness indicates a deeper cause. This could involve bone grafting, thoroughly cleaning the area, and in rare cases, placing a new implant altogether. You can save your new teeth, and that can happen only with prompt action.
Can A Loose Dental Implant Be Saved?
Yes! Mostly, even if the prosthetic teeth become unstable, they can be repaired safely and effectively. However, conditions differ for each patient. Our practitioners put their best foot forward to save the treatment. Only for severe complications, they suggest undergoing complete replacement surgery to support your oral health.
Book An Appointment For Thorough Implant Care
Implanted teeth demand optimal oral care to function and serve their best for decades. However, Shumway Dental Care comprehends the potential risks associated with dental implants. Our specialist, Dr. Shumway in Chandler, AZ, provides personalized solutions to each patient to give back a beautiful smile. Whether you are dealing with a loose implant or need one placed, visit our dental office for advanced solutions and comprehensive care. You can also book an appointment online, and our team will get back to you to provide a slot at your convenience.