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Dental implants are a reliable and permanent solution for missing teeth, often lasting decades or even a lifetime with proper care. However, there are rare cases when an implant may need to be removed.
If your dentist or periodontist in Arizona suggests removing a dental implant, understanding what to expect can help to ease your worries so you can care for your smile with confidence.
Can Dental Implants Be Removed?
Yes, dental implants can be removed, but this is typically considered a last resort. Removal is only recommended when an implant can’t be saved by other treatments. Your dentist or periodontist will help you explore all options before deciding if removing your dental implants is the best course of action.
Reasons to Remove Dental Implants
There are several possible reasons why a dental implant might need to be removed.
Peri-implantitis
Like any tooth, dental implants can develop gum disease and infections in the tissues that support them. This can cause inflammation and damage to the bone that holds your implant in place. In many cases, peri-implantitis can be treated and even reversed with treatments like professional teeth cleaning or LAPIP laser treatments.
Implant or graft rejection
The materials used in dental implants are biocompatible, meaning they rarely cause a reaction that could irritate your tissues. However, in rare instances, your body may reject the implant or the bone graft supporting it. This may lead to persistent pain, inflammation, or failure to integrate with the bone, making it necessary to remove the implant.
Poor implant placement
If the implant is not placed properly, it may fail over time. This can happen because of a bad bite, a post that’s too large for the bone, or an improperly angled implant post that puts uneven pressure on the implant. That’s why it’s critical to trust a qualified implant dentist for your surgery.
Medical issues that compromise the implant
Health issues like osteoporosis can weaken the bone surrounding a dental implant. Tobacco use can also lead to implant failure.
Damage to the implant
An implant can become compromised due to physical injury or corrosion over time. If the implant itself is damaged, it may need to be removed to prevent further complications or discomfort.
To minimize the risk of needing a dental implant removed, ensure that your dental implant is placed by a skilled implant dentist or periodontist. A well-crafted and balanced restoration, combined with good home care and regular check-ups and professional cleanings can help maintain the health of your implant. Detecting and treating problems early also plays a big role in prevention.
What Is the Process of Removing a Dental Implant?
If it’s necessary to remove a dental implant, your dentist or periodontist will make sure you’re comfortable throughout the process. Typically, we’ll use local anesthesia (numbing injections) to numb the area, but dental sedation can provide added comfort.
The process of removing a dental implant varies depending on several factors, such as the type of implant, its position, and the condition of the surrounding bone tissue. In some cases, your surgeon may advise waiting until more of the bone wears away naturally before removing the implant to prevent unnecessary injury to the bone of your jaw.
We use specialized instruments to gently remove the implant while preserving as much healthy bone as possible. To do this, we’ll carefully cut away about 0.5 to 1 mm of bone around the edge of the implant then carefully loosen and remove it.
In some cases, we may recommend a bone graft to rebuild the jawbone, helping to stabilize its health and create a solid foundation for future dental work.
What Happens After a Dental Implant Is Removed?
Recovery after dental implant removal is generally manageable. Your dentist or surgeon will provide detailed instructions and any necessary prescriptions such as mouth rinse to help you heal properly and minimize your discomfort.
Once your bone has healed, you may be able to get a new dental implant if conditions are right. However, if a new implant is not an option, dentures or a dental bridge may be better alternatives to rebuild your smile.
Regardless of the best course of action, the goal is always to ensure you maintain a complete and functional smile that allows you to eat comfortably and smile with confidence.
We’re Here to Help You Keep Your Smile Complete
At Dental Specialty Associates of Arizona, we know how important it is to have a smile that’s healthy and complete. Whether you need support for a failing dental implant or you’re concerned about the health of your dental implants, our team includes experienced implant dentists and maxillofacial surgeons who can guide you through the best options for your health.
Your smile is essential to your quality of life and we’re dedicated to giving it the care it deserves. If you have any questions or concerns about your dental implants, reach out to schedule a consultation with our team of implant dentists in Phoenix or Gilbert.
