Dental implants can last decades, but may require maintenance and repair. An implant restoration returns a loose or damaged implant to its original form and function. It is far more common to need restoration than many patients anticipate.
Dental implant restoration is available at Oak Tree Dental in Poway and the surrounding area . Our dedicated team can answer your questions and provide useful information on the process and choose the right treatment form. Call us at (858) 748-2101 to receive more information and schedule a consultation time.
The causes of implant failure
While the success of the implant process relies on several factors, certain actions and health conditions can increase the risk of implant failure. For example, bruxism and gum disease may harm a healing implant, while conditions such as osteoporosis may make the bone too weak to support or anchor the implant screw. Furthermore, according to the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dentistry, radiation therapy (especially to the head and neck) from ongoing cancer treatment can inhibit the bones' healing ability.
Additionally, for dental implants to work, there must be enough bone mass to hold the implants securely. If there is inadequate or insufficient bone mass, the dentist may suggest bone augmentation or bone grafting. The oral cavity, especially the teeth and the supporting tissues, must also be healthy for the implants to hold up.
Depending on the location of the implant, smoking can also cause implant failure. The dentist may recommend quitting smoking totally or until the treatment ends. Certain medications, such as antidepressants, may also influence the rate of bone metabolism and affect the osseointegration process negatively.
“While the success of the implant process relies on several factors, certain actions and health conditions can increase the risk of implant failure.”
When dental implant restoration is necessary
Dental implant restoration involves restoring the strength, appearance, and function of a dental implant that has become loose or damaged. When a patient has an issue with a dental implant, it is best to seek assistance from a professional. Here are some examples of circumstances that prompt the need for dental implant restorations:
- Poor oral hygiene: It is essential to practice a consistent oral hygiene routine that includes brushing several times each day, flossing, using mouthwash, and being mindful of any issues with the mouth.
- Fractured dental implant: If a dental implant is fractured, a dentist will need to remove the broken pieces and replace the implant.
- Loose dental implant: Gum recession, gum disease, and failure of the dental implant to stabilize the jaw are just a few examples of what could cause a loose implant. That is why it is crucial to seek prompt assistance when an implant is loose.
- Worn-down implant: Though dental implants can last decades, they are still prone to damage due to aging or issues such as teeth grinding.
- Cosmetic concerns. Cosmetic issues such as discoloration can be improved through implant restoration as well.
Oak Tree Dental encourages anyone who experiences complications with the stability, function, appearance, or health of their dental implant or the surrounding area to schedule an appointment to learn how implant restoration can help.
“When a patient has an issue with a dental implant, it is best to seek assistance from a professional.”
Replacing dental implants
Restoring dental implants consists of two treatment stages: the implant placement and the restorative stage. The implant placement stage can be a one- or two-stage process depending on the approach. In any case, the dentist will place the implant inside the jaw and cover the implant post with a cover screw to prevent bone in-growth. They will then cover both the implant and cover-screw with gingival tissue. The bone will need to heal around the implant for about three to six months, depending on the quality and quantity of the bone. Throughout healing, the bone will fuse or bond with the implant in a process known as osseointegration.
Once the oral tissues have healed fully, the restoration process can begin. For single-implant restorations, the dentist can choose between the screw-retained crown or cement-retained crown, depending on the patient's preferences and the implant's position. The screw-retained crown has a screw access hole that fits over the abutment, featuring an anti-rotation feature to lower the chances of screw loosening. The main advantage of this option is retrievability in case of loosening or fracture and the easy examination of the implant and gums. It also allows the dentist to remove the crown without causing damages.
The other option is the cement-retained crown. Using dental cement, the dentist will fix the crown directly to a custom abutment connected to the implant. Patients with aesthetic concerns will benefit from this option because it assures the most cosmetic appeal. However, the restoration cannot be removed without causing damages to the crown. There is also a concern for residual cement, which may become a medium for bacteria colonies.
“Restoring dental implants consists of two treatment stages: the implant placement and the restorative stage.”
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There is typically some discomfort following an implant restoration and aftercare instructions to follow. To speed up recovery and avoid irritation of the affected area, stick to a soft diet of healthy foods and do not consume beverages high in sugar. Patients are often required to make routine follow-up visits as well.
You can take steps to make your dental implants last and reduce the need for implant restoration. Dentists advise you not only avoid certain foods but also tobacco products and smoking. For dental implants, patients should use a low-abrasion toothpaste along with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Special flosses and interdental brushes can make it easier to keep your dental implants clean and the area around them healthy.
“You can take steps to make your dental implants last and reduce the need for implant restoration.”
Questions answered on this page
Q. What causes damage to implants?
Q. What should you do after an implant restoration procedure?
Q. What are some of the causes of dental implant failure?
Q. What is it like to get dental implants restored?
Q. What other dental implant issues may occur?
People also ask
Q. When is a dental restoration necessary?
Q. What is restorative dentistry?
Q. What does the implant recovery process look like?
Q. When should people seek an implant dentist?
Q. What happens during the implant placement surgery?
Q. What dietary and lifestyle changes do I need to make after my dental implant procedure?
Other dental implant issues
Occasionally, dental implants may become fractured due to the material and design of the implant, the lack of fit between the implant and crown, and parafunctional habits (such as bruxism). It is possible to remove these fractured implants via an apicoectomy. Alternatively, the coronal portion of the fractured implant may be removed only. Loose dental implants can also be replaced, though they are rare.
During a consultation, we will determine the most effective treatment option to meet the patient's needs. We will then walk the patient through the entire treatment process and help them through the recovery stage.
“During a consultation, we will determine the most effective treatment option to meet the patient’s needs.”
Frequently asked questions
When you come to the office, the dentist will discuss pain management options with you. Afterward, you can use over-the-counter pain relievers to manage pain. The pain with dental implant restoration is usually minimal if you follow the dentist's instructions.
The repair procedure depends on the part of the implant that needs repair. If the dental crown suffers damage, the dentist can replace or repair it without touching the titanium implant. If the problem is with the actual implant, the dentist may need to remove the implant and perform a bone graft procedure. It will be impossible to replace a loose implant if the dentist does not correct the issue with the jawbone.
Dental implants have a success rate of more than 95%, which means the chances of failure are low. It is rare for one implant to fail, and even if it does, the others should remain intact. As a precaution, if an injury caused the failure of one implant, you should have the entire teeth checked to ensure nothing else is damaged.
Usually, the longer you go without replacing a lost tooth, the lesser your chances of getting dental implants due to loss of bone density. However, this is not a deal-breaker. The dentist may augment the bone or suggest mini dental implants for the tooth restoration process.
With the proper care, dental implant restorations can last decades. Most patients will not experience any issues after restoration.
Dental implant terminology
An abutment is a component that attaches to the dental implant so a professional can place a dental crown to provide patients with an artificial, aesthetically pleasing and fully-functional smile.
Multiple replacement teeth that are fixed in place via attachment to dental implants, natural adjacent teeth, or a combination of the two.
A crown is an artificial tooth, usually consisting of porcelain, which covers the top of the implant to provide people with an aesthetically pleasing and fully-functional tooth.
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants may be an option for people who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason.
Endosteal is a type of dental implant that a professional places in the alveolar and basal bone of the mandible that transcends only one cortical plate.
Eposteal is a type of dental implant that conforms to whichever edentulous surface of an alveolar bone is superior.
An implant-supported bridge is a dental bridge that professionals fix in place with the use of dental implants inserted in the jaw to create a sturdy set of artificial teeth.
Osseointegration is the process in which a titanium dental implant fuses with the surrounding bone over several months after an oral health professional places the implant in the jaw.
Call us today
Our team offers dental implant restoration to patients who experience complications with artificial teeth supported by implants. If you feel you need a restoration or have concerns with your implant for any reason, give us a call at 858-748-2101 and schedule a time to come in for a consultation.
Individual results vary. How long a treatment lasts, and how it looks and feels, depends on each patient.