Dental Implant Removal – Houston Dentist Dr. J Explains The Process
People use dental implants for a variety of reasons, including as a replacement for damaged or missing teeth. They’re a popular form of replacement, and one that’s easy to carry out by dentists. But now and then, dental implants need to be removed or replaced, which can be a daunting procedure after having the implant fitted in the first place.
But why are dental implant removals necessary and what exactly happens when they are removed?
About dental implants
Dental implants are an effective replacement for real teeth. Missing teeth can cause a number of issues, including difficulty eating and speaking, while also causing self-esteem issues. Fortunately, teeth that have suffered damage or missing teeth can easily be replaced with dental implants, making them a great way to restore your smile.
As a long-lasting solution, dental implants can be a great way to fix your smile and help you regain your confidence. They are fitted easily, using a titanium screw fitted to your jawbone, which can then be attached to a denture or a crown. The results are natural and realistic, making your smile appear full once again.
Why do dental implants need to be removed?
While dental implants can be a long-lasting solution for your dental needs, there are occasions where they need to be removed. Some of the main reasons for removing dental implants include:
- Sensitivity to metal – While not a common reason for dental implant removal, some patients experience sensitivity to certain types of metal. This can cause extreme discomfort and irritation. While titanium allergies are extremely rare, a dental implant would need to be removed in the event of an adverse reaction.
- Discomfort – Discomfort is another reason why a dental implant might need to be removed. While most patients can expect to experience some discomfort after having the procedure, if the discomfort continues then another issue could be behind it. Some dental implant procedures fail, often due to medical conditions or lifestyle choices such as smoking, which is why it’s important to choose a dentist who is experienced and considers all aspects of your health before undergoing the procedure.
- Changes to requirements – If your dental implant is part of a long-term transformation, it might be essential to remove or move your implant. Moving your implant could help to accommodate further changes and ensure the best result from your dental transformation.
- Aesthetic reasons – While dental implants make a great replacement for missing teeth, it can be difficult for them to be an exact match for your missing teeth. Some people become uncomfortable being able to see the metal near the gum line, and may wish to have their implant removed for this reason. Other aesthetical reasons could be around differences in whiteness, as well as finding a new procedure that provides an alternative result.
- Replacement of existing implants – If an implant becomes damaged and can’t be repaired, it will need replacing. Replacing an existing implant isn’t as complicated as removing an implant altogether, but is still sometimes necessary to provide the best results for patients.
About the procedure
On occasion, dental implants can fail. This can be the result of an error by the dentist who carried out the procedure, including incorrect placement, or it can be caused by other reasons. For example, a patient may not heal properly, or the implant fails to connect to the bone.
If you have had a dental implant inserted, you might wonder how dental implants are removed, if required. here are two categories for a failed implant, which are:
Early failures
These occur within the first couple of months following the procedure. An early infection, poor lifestyle choices or a failure to connect with the bone can all contribute to the early failure of an implant. If the implant hasn’t fused with the bone, it can be a simple and straightforward procedure to remove it.
Late failures
Late failures can happen several months or even a year after the procedure. One of the most common reasons for a late failure is an infection, known as perio-implantitis, which can cause the bone around the implant to decay. In these situations, the implant will need to be removed to prevent further damage being caused to the jaw.
To remove a dental implant, you would be put under anaesthesia. Specialist tools will be used to remove the implant from the bone while causing as little damage as possible to the bone. The crown will be removed first, providing easy access to the screw itself. A torque wrench may be used to unscrew the bone, or a specialist cutting device might need to be used for implants that have fully fused with the bone.
Some patients may have an immediate replacement of the implant if the dentist feels this is appropriate. However, in some cases, the patient might need a bone graft to restore strength to the jaw before a replacement implant can be inserted. Another option could be to let the area heal and replace the dental implant at a later date.
Aftercare
Removing a dental implant can be a dental procedure, much like removing a tooth. Most pain is normal and expected, and can be managed with painkillers. However, if pain still exists 5-7 days after the procedure, it’s possible that there’s an infection or a problem as a result of the procedure. It’s important to have a conversation with your dentist about any risks and to get their advice on the best form of aftercare. It’s important to discuss the risk factors that can affect your healing, as well as what kind of complications to look out for. Good oral hygiene is essential for helping you keep the area clean and prevent infection as much as possible.
Dental implant procedures are a common form of restorative dentistry, but as with any procedure, there can be complications. If you think your implant needs removing, make sure you consult your dentist as soon as possible to discuss your options.
