Dental implants are a popular and effective method for replacing missing teeth. However, it is possible for dental implants to fall out, or "fail." There are several reasons why this might occur:
- Infection: One of the most common reasons for dental implant failure is infection. If bacteria manage to enter the implant site, it can lead to infection and inflammation, which can cause the implant to loosen and eventually fall out. To prevent this, it is important to keep the implant site clean and free of bacteria, and to follow your dentist's instructions for post-surgery care.
- Poor placement: Dental implants need to be placed in the jawbone in a precise manner in order to be successful. If the implant is not placed correctly, it may not have sufficient support and could fail. This is why it is important to choose a skilled and experienced dentist for your implant surgery.
- Insufficient bone density: Dental implants rely on the surrounding bone for support. If the jawbone is not dense enough, the implant may not have enough support and could fail. This is more common in people who have had missing teeth for an extended period of time, as the jawbone may have deteriorated or resorbed. In these cases, a bone graft may be necessary to strengthen the jawbone before the implant can be placed.
- Overloading: Dental implants are designed to withstand the same forces as natural teeth, but they can still fail if they are subjected to excessive forces. This is more likely to occur if the implant is placed in an area of the mouth that is subjected to heavy chewing or biting forces, such as the molars. In these cases, it may be necessary to use a different type of restoration, such as a fixed bridge, to distribute the forces more evenly.
- Poor oral hygiene: As with natural teeth, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent dental implant failure. If you do not brush and floss regularly, bacteria can build up around the implant and lead to infection. This can cause the implant to loosen and eventually fall out.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and autoimmune diseases, can increase the risk of dental implant failure. These conditions can affect the body's ability to heal and may make it more difficult for the implant to integrate with the surrounding bone.
Overall, dental implants have a high success rate and are a reliable option for replacing missing teeth. However, it is important to follow your dentist's instructions for post-surgery care and maintain good oral hygiene to help prevent dental implant failure. If you are concerned about the stability of your dental implants, it is important to consult with your dentist for an evaluation.