When you want to replace a missing tooth or teeth, dental implants can be an ideal solution. Not only are they fixed and stable, but they can last a lifetime with consistent care. Dental implants boast an overall success rate of 98 percent. Still, there are certain situations in which they can fail.
At Walnut Pond, Drs. Victoria Uryniak and Carson Ferris-Zeolla can restore dental implants with crowns, bridges, or dentures. If you experience any dental implant concerns listed in this article, contact at our practice in Clinton, NJ, office for professional evaluation and recommendations.
The Dental Implant Does Not Feel the Same
Does it seem as if your dental implant feels different in your mouth? Maybe it wiggles a little, or somehow seems as if it no longer fits the way it once did. The problem might not be your dental implant at all, in the case of adjacent teeth drifting. However, if your dental crown has become loose or suffered damage, you may be sensitive to the change.
You Have Developed Gum Disease
Gum disease affects about half the American population and can happen at any time in your life. Although your dentist will check for untreated gum disease prior to recommending a specialist in Clinton, NJ to place your dental implants, you may develop gum disease months or years later.
Without intervention and management, gum disease destroys healthy gum, tooth, and bone tissue. If you present gum disease, Drs. Uryniak and Ferris-Zeolla will schedule you for an initial deep cleaning. If the stability of your dental implant has been compromised because of severe bone loss, they may suggest removal of the dental implant followed by bone grafting. After you have developed sufficient bone strength, you could again be considered for a replacement dental implant.
You Have an Infection Around the Dental Implant
Are you noticing redness around a relatively recently placed dental implant? Is there discharge coming from under the gums? A bad smell? This may indicate an infection known as peri-implantitis.
Dental implant failure only happens in about five percent of all placement cases, but when it does, peri-implantitis can be the source of the problem. Fortunately, when peri-implantitis is caught early, it can be cured with proper dental treatment, at-home care, and prescription antibiotics.
The Dental Crown Has Cracked
Dental crowns are made of incredibly sturdy material, but like natural teeth, they can crack under pressure. For instance, patients who grind their teeth are at risk of damaging their dental crowns due to the constant force.
Even if you notice what appear to be very small lines in your dental implant crown, please call our office to be seen by the dentist. A cracked dental crown can be replaced very easily, allowing you to once again enjoy all the advantages of your restoration.
Your Dental Implant Is More Than 15-20 Years Old
Did you receive your dental implant two decades ago? Dentistry has evolved during that time period. Your old dental implant may no longer offer the support you need due to normal aging. Our dentists would be pleased to evaluate your older dental implant and determine if a replacement dental implant or dental crown is advisable.
Dental Implants in Clinton, NJ
Want a first or second opinion on the state of your dental implants? Contact Walnut Pond Dentistry at (908) 200-7007 to schedule a consultation. Our objective is for all patients to experience outstanding care and oral health.
