Dental Implant Falls Out What to Do?
Following are some quick actions that you must take if your dental implant falls out:
Avoid Swallowing:
It’s important not to swallow the dislodged implant, which can lead to further complications. If it falls out, carefully remove it from your mouth and avoid swallowing.
Contact Your Dentist Immediately:
Reach out to your dentist as soon as possible. They will guide you to the next steps and may schedule an emergency appointment.
Your dentist will recommend immediate care to assess the situation and potentially re-implant the tooth. Be prepared to follow their instruction.
Protect the Implant:
Keep the implant in a clean, moist environment. Saline solution or milk can be suitable options. Avoid using water, as it can damage the implant’s surface
Avoid Trying to Re-Implant Yourself:
Refrain from trying to re-insert the implant. Improper re-implantation can cause further damage and decrease the chance of successful reattachment.
Can Dental Implants Fall Out?
Yes, dental implants can fall out, although it’s relatively rare when performed by a skilled dental professional and with proper care. 90% to 95% is the success rate of dental implants while 5% to 10% can fall out.
Why Did My Dental Implant Fall Out?
Your dental implant fell out due to the following reasons:
Implant Failure:
Occasionally, dental implants can fail to integrate properly with the jawbone. It can lead to instability and eventual dislodgement.
Peri-implantitis:
Peri-implantitis can compromise the bone and soft tissue support which causes the implant to become loose and fall out.
Injury:
Physical trauma to the mouth, such as a blow to the face or accidental biting, can damage the implant and surrounding tissues which leads to its failure.
Poor Bone Quality or Quantity:
Insufficient bone density or volume in the jaw can impede the implant’s stability and longevity. Inadequate bone support may result from factors such as bone loss due to periodontal disease or previous tooth extractions.
Poor Oral Hygiene:
Neglecting proper oral hygiene practices can lead to the accumulation of plaque and bacteria around the implant. This increases the risk of infection and subsequent implant failure.
Implant Overloading:
Excessive pressure or force placed on the implant, particularly during the early stages of healing, can disrupt the integration process and lead to implant failure.
How Often Do Dental Implant Screws Fall Out?
Dental implant screw falling out is uncommon. Research suggests that the likelihood of the loss of the implant fixture or screw portion ranges from 2% to 12% over five years.
With adherence to post-operative instructions, you can minimize the risk of falling out which ensures the long-term success of your dental implants.
What Are The Signs That a Surgical Screw is Coming Loose?
Here are the signs that a surgical screw in a dental implant can be coming loose:
- Persistent or increasing pain around the implant site can indicate screw loosening.
- The implant feeling loose or moving slightly when touched can be a sign of screw instability.
- Swelling, redness, or inflammation around the implant site.
- Any changes in your bite alignment, such as difficulty chewing or feeling like your teeth don’t fit together properly.
- Visible screw from the gum tissue or changes in the appearance of the implant.
- Some patients may notice clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when biting down, which indicates screw loosening or other implant-related issues.
Can I Glue My Dental Implant Back in?
Attempting to glue a dental implant back in on your own is not recommended. Dental implants require professional assessment and treatment by a qualified dentist or oral surgeon.
Gluing the implant back in yourself can lead to improper alignment, further damage, or infection. Your dentist will assess the situation and determine the best course of action to ensure the long-term success of your implant.