Symptoms of Dental Implant Failure | Implant Rejection Signs

The most common symptoms of dental implant failure include pain, swelling, bleeding, and a wobbling implant. Although dental implants boast a high success rate, it's prudent to familiarize yourself with the indicators of a failed dental implant to promptly address any issues that may arise. Remember, recognizing these signs early can lead to quick intervention and a better chance of saving your implant.

Early Symptoms of Dental Implant Failure

If a dental implant fails soon after the procedure, you’ll likely notice these dental implant failure symptoms and should notify your dentist immediately:

Wobbling Implant

One of the initial signs of dental implant failure is the sensation of movement in the implant. This may indicate incomplete osseointegration of the dental implant, where the implant and jaw bone haven't fully fused, compromising the tooth replacement's stability.

Continuing Discomfort and Pain

Mild discomfort and pain near the implant site are normal in the days following the procedure. However, if the pain continues for longer than a week, this could indicate a problem.

Bleeding and Inflammation

Bleeding and inflammation in the gums around the implant may signal peri-implantitis, an infection around the implant site that can lead to tissue and bone loss if not caught early.

Gum Recession

Gum recession around the implant site can expose the implant surface, and if left untreated, may lead to further complications such as infection and bone loss.

Difficulty Chewing

Implants should function like your natural teeth and allow you to eat without discomfort. If chewing becomes difficult, it could signal issues with the implant's angle, size, or fit which can lead to the implant becoming loose.

Late Symptoms of Dental Implant Failure

While most failures happen shortly after implantation, implants can also fail several years after the procedure. If you have any of these symptoms, contact your dentist immediately.

Numbness and Tingling

Nerve or tissue damage can arise if an implant is positioned too close to a nerve. Indicators of such damage may include numbness or tingling sensations in the tongue, lips, gums, or face.

Pain, Swelling, Fever, and Chills

Although rare, foreign body rejection can occur, leading to the body rejecting the implant. Symptoms include heightened pain at the implant site, swelling, fever, and chills.

Nasal Congestion, Trouble Breathing, Bleeding, and Loss of Smell

Nasal congestion, pain, trouble breathing, bleeding, and loss of smell can indicate that a dental implant placed in the upper jaw is protruding into the sinus cavity. This protrusion can be caused by trauma to the implant or an inadequate dental implant treatment plan on the part of the dentist (this has never happened with any of the implants placed in our Bakersfield, CA dental office).

Causes of Dental Implant Failure

The following factors can cause dental implant failure:

• Gum disease (periodontitis), if left untreated, is a significant risk factor for implant failure. Bacterial infection and inflammation can weaken the surrounding bone and compromise the implant's stability.

• Insufficient jaw bone can lead to implant failure because a successful procedure relies on ample healthy bone to support the implant.

• Poor oral hygiene, such as irregular or inadequate brushing and flossing, can contribute to plaque buildup and gum disease (gingivitis), increasing the risk of implant failure.

• Smoking can contribute to dental implant failure by reducing blood flow to the gums, thereby impeding the healing process. Research indicates that smokers may face a dental implant failure rate of up to 20 percent.

• Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism) can exert excessive force on the implant and surrounding jaw bone, leading to implant failure over time. Protective measures, such as wearing a nightguard, may be recommended for individuals with bruxism.

• Medical conditions, such as diabetes, low Vitamin D levels, ongoing cancer treatment, and radiation therapy can affect bone health and compromise the success of dental implant surgery.

• Some medications increase the risk of implant failure. For instance, antidepressants containing selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) affect bone metabolism rate and this may lead to osseointegration issues.

Treatment Options for Failed Implants

The following are some of the options for treating dental implant failure depending on when and why the implant has failed:

• Implant removal may be necessary to prevent further complications and preserve oral health.

• A bone graft may be needed to stimulate bone growth at the implant site and increase the likelihood that another dental implant will be successful.

• Implant replacement options include repeating the implantation procedure or opting for another dental procedure like dental bridges or dentures.

Tips for Preventing Dental Implant Failure

Given the time and financial investment required for a dental implant procedure, ensuring its longevity is paramount. Reduce the risk of implant failure by following these measures:

Choose an Experienced Dental Implant Specialist

Selecting a qualified and experienced implant specialist is essential for a successful outcome. Before proceeding, be sure to inquire about the dentist's credentials and expertise in dental implant procedures.

An experienced dentist will meticulously evaluate your oral health before recommending dental implants. They will then handle the entire dental implant procedure with the utmost care, striving to ensure the success of your implant.

Follow Postoperative Instructions

Follow your dentist's postoperative instructions carefully to promote optimal healing and implant integration. These usually include dietary restrictions such as initially only eating soft foods, using oral antibiotics or antibacterial mouthwash, and modifying your activities during the initial recovery period. Refer to our Dental Implant Care Guide for more information on how to care for dental implants after the initial implant placement. 

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Practicing proper oral hygiene, such as brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash, can help prevent gum disease and reduce the risk of a failed implant.

Regular dental cleanings and exams are crucial. The sooner your dentist identifies any signs of implant failure, the quicker they can be addressed to prevent complications.

Avoid Risky Habits

Avoid habits that can compromise implant success, such as smoking (which can impede the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure), excessive alcohol consumption, and poor dietary choices like sugary and acidic foods and drinks.

Eat Immune-Enhancing Foods

Eating a whole-food diet rich in diverse nutrients fortifies your oral health and facilitates the healing journey. Moreover, maintaining a nutritious diet can serve as a preventive measure against future dental issues like cavities.

Prevent Dental Implant Complications

Recognizing the symptoms of dental implant failure and addressing them promptly is crucial for preserving oral health and maximizing the success of implant treatment. Be vigilant and let your dentist know about any changes or abnormalities around the implant site, such as pain, swelling, bleeding, or mobility.

By understanding the potential causes of implant failure, seeking timely treatment, and taking preventive measures, this problem can often be prevented or corrected. As a result of your diligence both before and after implant surgery, you should be able to enjoy the benefits of a healthy and functional smile for years to come.