Dental implants are one of the most advanced and reliable tooth replacement solutions available today. They are surgically inserted into the jawbone and designed to mimic natural teeth' look, feel, and function, providing a stable and permanent foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures. However, as effective as they are, patients often wonder: Can a dental implant fall out?

While dental implant issues are uncommon, signs of dental implant failure can appear shortly after placement or even years later. Recognizing these warning signs early is key to protecting your oral health. It's important to understand what can cause implant failure, how to spot the symptoms, and what steps you can take to prevent dental implant problems. Let’s explore the signs of dental implant failure and how to support your implant’s long-term success.

What Are The Dental Implant Failure Risk Factors?

While dental implants are known for their durability and high success rate, some individuals may still wonder, "Do dental implants fall out?" In rare cases, factors like poor oral hygiene, smoking, or certain health conditions can increase the risk of implant failure. Understanding and addressing these risks is essential to maintaining your implant’s long-term success. To learn more about preventing implant complications, visit our blog page: Are Dental Implants Safe In The Long Run? and discover how to support the longevity of your dental implants.

Gum Disease

Damage caused to the jawbone and gums from an infection. You must have healthy gums to have dental implant surgery. If you have active gum disease, a dentist will not perform the procedure, and they will recommend gum disease treatment.

When gum disease progresses, it can lead to peri-implantitis, an inflammatory process that affects the gum and bone around the implant. This condition can compromise implant stability and ultimately cause it to loosen or fall out. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene and attending regular dental cleanings is crucial to minimizing gum-related risks.

Smoking

Restricts the blood flow to the gums, causing the healing process to be slowed. Smokers have a dental implant failure rate of up to 20 percent in recent studies. Just because you smoke doesn’t disqualify you from getting dental implants; it is encouraged that you stop smoking for at least two months so that the implant can heal properly.

Smoking also increases the likelihood of post-operative infection and impedes the body’s natural healing process, making it harder for the implant to integrate successfully with the bone. If you're considering dental implants, it's highly recommended to stop smoking entirely or at least for the critical healing period to reduce the chance of the dental implant falling out.

Insufficient Jawbone

You must have a healthy jawbone for the implant to be placed surgically in your jaw. Depending on the current health of your jawbone, you may need to see a specialist for bone grafting.

If the bone isn't dense or thick enough, it may not be able to support the implant long-term. Even if the implant initially integrates, it may fail over time due to a lack of bone support. A bone graft or sinus lift can help reinforce the area and ensure proper anchorage for the implant. Your dentist will use X-rays or 3D imaging to assess bone volume before treatment begins.

Medical Conditions

If diagnosed, immune diseases or conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes can be a possible factor for dental implant failure, as these conditions slow the healing process. Osseointegration is the process by which the implant integrates and fuses into the jawbone.

When systemic health is compromised, healing may take longer, and the risk of post-operative infection increases. Patients with chronic conditions should work with their primary physician and dentist to manage their health before implant surgery.

Poor Dental Maintenance

Good oral hygiene before and after a dental implant impacts the success rate of the implant.

Neglecting proper oral care can result in bacterial buildup and infections around the implant site. Daily brushing, flossing, and professional dental checkups help ensure the longevity of your dental implant. This simple routine can make a big difference in preventing implant complications or potential failure.

Inexperienced Doctor

Not all doctors are created equal. You may be referred to a preferred doctor by your dentist, but you can select whatever provider you want. Working with an experienced and skilled implant specialist significantly increases the chances of success. Improper placement, poor angle, or failure to assess bone density can all contribute to a dental implant coming loose. Always choose a provider with extensive training in implant dentistry.

Are You Interested In Learning More?

Schedule your consultation today with Dr. Jig Patel and Dr. Muizz Merchant at Schaumburg Dental Studio and take the first step toward a brighter, healthier smile!

We understand the importance of your oral health to your overall well-being. During your visit, we will thoroughly evaluate your teeth, gums, and bone health to determine if dental implants suit you. For more details, check out our blog, 5 Reasons Why You Should Get a Dental Implant!, where we explore how implants can improve your smile and quality of life. If you already have a dental implant and are concerned about its stability, we can assess its condition and recommend the right care to prevent complications and ensure long-term success.

Our team uses advanced imaging and technology to carefully plan each implant placement carefully, ensuring the highest success rate possible. We also provide comprehensive aftercare guidance to help you maintain your implants for years to come.