Dental implants in Burien are unlike any other tooth replacement treatment because they permanently anchor your replacement teeth within your mouth. In fact, the implants are fused with the jawbone, making the restoration unwavering and incredibly sturdy. However, problems can arise during your treatment as well as afterwards that can cause your dental implant and restoration to feel loose. Read on to learn what you should do if this situation arises.
First Step: Call Your Dentist
The first thing you should do is to contact your dentist in Burien so they can schedule an emergency examination for as soon as possible. That way, they can examine the dental implant and surrounding tissue, take X-rays, and diagnose the issue at-hand to provide you with an effective treatment plan. If you’re in pain because of your loose dental implant, they’ll also be able to help improve your comfort.
What Can Cause a Loose Dental Implant?
There are two components to your dental implant restoration, the restoration itself, which can be a bridge, crown, or denture, and the titanium post. If the restoration is what’s loose, this is significantly less serious, as it’s likely that the abutment (which holds the restoration to the dental implant) needs to be replaced, or a new replacement tooth may need to be crafted.
On the other hand, if the dental implant itself is loose, this tends to be the result of more serious concerns. Infection, such as peri-implantitis, can cause the deterioration of the supportive bone and soft tissue surrounding a dental implant, causing it to become loose. Additionally, if a dental implant doesn’t properly integrate with the jawbone, this can lead to it feeling loose or unstable.
How Can a Loose Dental Implant Be Fixed?
The solution to your loose dental implant will depend on what is causing the issue, which can be determined by your dentist after a thorough examination. Some of the treatments that they may recommend include:
- Replacing a damaged restoration
- Replacing a damaged abutment
- Tackling infection with medication and other treatments
- Re-placing the dental implant so it can successfully integrate with the bone
- Taking the dental implant out completely
Although some of these options can sound anxiety-inducing or even frustrating, know that the sooner you address the root cause of the issue, the better! When you wait to be seen for a loose dental implant, it can increase your risk of needing to have it taken out altogether. Not only can being proactive help save your newly restored smile, but it can also save your wallet.
About the Author
Dr. Vincent Lam strives to create a positive, stress-free experience for all of his patients, even when they come to him worried about their smiles. With years of experience and advanced education in dental implant treatment, he’s able to salvage failing dental implants as well as preserve his patients’ smiles in many cases. To schedule an appointment for a loose dental implant, visit Seahurst Smiles of Burien’s website or call 206-242-4477.