Factors for Dental Implant Failure
It’s true that dental implants can last a lifetime, but there are times when certain factors play a role that can lead to failure. It should be good to know what these are so that we can avoid them to the best of our ability, and prolong the life and usefulness of implants. Here are some common factors to blame.
There was insufficient bone mass to sustain the implant. This should have been ascertained before the procedure, like via x-rays. If bone is proved to be insufficient, bone grafting or sinus lifting would have been done prior. Bone loss can also plague the implant post-surgery. For example, you may have osteoporosis, periodontitis, and other medical conditions.
There was negligence in care and maintenance of the implant. Neglect of proper oral hygiene as brushing and flossing can impact the surrounding structures and the implant itself. Though the implant is metal and the crown used is artificial, food debris, bacteria, and acid can build up and still attack the gumline. Peri-implantitis is that progressive infection that affects implants.
You are smoking. How does smoking cause implant failure? Studies have shown that overall implant failure rates are higher in smokers than nonsmokers (11% vs 5%). That’s because nicotine affects blood flow to the implant area, affecting integration of bone to the implant, thereby including healing.
You are a teeth grinder. Teeth grinding puts unnecessary pressure on teeth surfaces and can lead to cracking of the replacement crown, loosening of the abutment screw, and ultimately, implant fracture. The repeated, nightly clenching or grinding of teeth causes movements, however small, of the implant. Especially during the healing process, the movements interfere with the proper osseointegration.
Your age can also impact implant success. Older adults have slower healing processes. They also may have underlying medical issues, like diabetes, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, congestive heart failure, bleeding disorders, and a compromised immune system.
You have taken treatments and medicines that may influence implant failure, like blood-thinning drugs (aspirin), immunosuppressive drugs, or radiation treatments.
You have unfortunately gone to an inexperienced surgeon. How does inexperience affect implant failure. It could be any one of these: poorly designed implants, improper placement of the implant, tissue trauma during implant placement, or attaching a crown before an implant is stable.
SourceHelping You Advance To Implant Success in Federal Way
If you decide to have your dental implant at West Campus Dental, rest assured we will guide you through your journey towards implant success. That’s only here in Federal Way.
