(231) 737-2273
Appointment
While dental implants boast an impressive success rate of over 95%, problems can arise on occasion. While it is rare, some patients eventually discover that their implant is moving around in its place. While this can be quite disconcerting, it is a problem that can be addressed by a dental professional. Here’s how your dental implant may have come loose and what can be done to resolve the issue.
Why Did My Dental Implant Come Loose?
When a dental implant comes loose, it is usually in one of two ways:
Loose crown
Some patients find that the artificial tooth attached to their implant has come loose. This usually happens because the cement that binds the crown to the implant has deteriorated or been stressed by chewing on something crunchy. This isn’t a terribly serious problem, and it can usually be resolved by reapplying the cement, screwing the crown back in place, or replacing the artificial tooth altogether.
Loose implant
It’s a much more serious problem if you find that the whole implant is moving around within the gums. Dental implants are designed to fuse with the surrounding jawbone through the natural process of osseointegration, creating the strong foundation that allows them to work so well. If the whole implant is loose, it is probably because it is failing. Fixing this issue may require addressing underlying oral health issues and applying bone grafts before the implant can be replaced.
What Should I Do If My Dental Implant Is Loose?
While a loose dental implant usually doesn’t count as a dental emergency, it can certainly be disconcerting, and you’ll want to get help as soon as possible. The first thing to do is to call your dentist to schedule an appointment. If you reach their office after business hours, leave a detailed message including your name, phone number, and an explanation of the problem. Your dentist will want to know if the crown or the implant is loose, how loose it is, and if you are experiencing pain. You will be scheduled for an upcoming appointment so the issue can be addressed.
A loose dental implant is an urgent issue. You can rest assured that your dentist will be up to the task of resolving the problem.
About the Author
Dr. Eric Heisser earned his dental degree from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry and has accrued more than 500 hours of continuing education credits. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. His office in Norton Shores, MI offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implant services. If you have a loose dental implant or a dental emergency, dial (231) 737-2273. Otherwise, contact the office online.