Can Dental Implants Be Removed After They Are Placed?

While permanent teeth should last a lifetime, it doesn't always end up that way. They may be lost from tooth decay, periodontal (gum) disease, or an accident. Not many years ago, dental bridges and dentures were the go-to solutions for replacing damaged or lost teeth. However, thanks to advancements, dental implants have become a popular choice for tooth restoration. Replacing missing teeth with dental implants brings your mouth back to full function. With regular brushing, flossing, and visits to the dentist, the implant device can last a lifetime. The crown, or dental cap, that encircles the implant device usually lasts 10 – 15 years before needing to be replaced due to normal wear and tear. But, can dental implants fall out or be removed once in place?

Read on to learn more from the dental experts at Advanced Dentistry of Centre County in State College, PA. Dental implants are an excellent restorative option for missing teeth so contact our premier dental facility or schedule a consultation online today.

How do dental implants work to replace missing teeth?

If the loss of one or more teeth has affected your smile, lifestyle, or health, dental implants offer an excellent replacement option. At Advanced Dentistry of Centre County in State College, PA, our team provides personalized implant dentistry services to overcome the challenges with missing teeth. A single tooth replacement incorporates a titanium post or screw anchored into the jawbone to allow a dental crown to be placed on top. With several teeth missing within a specific area of the mouth, an implant bridge may be ideal for restoring a person's smile. Implant-retained bridges work on the same principle as traditional bridges – except instead of attaching to surrounding teeth for support, these dental restorations are affixed to dental implants within the jawbone.

Can dental implants fall out or be removed?

Dental implants bring function and beauty back to a person's smile after tooth loss. Single crowns or complex bridges can be supported by implants and be a dental solution for every situation. However, in some cases, an implant crown can break or come loose. If the dental crown appliance falls off or cracks, it typically can be screwed down again. If the abutment, or steel post, that anchors down the dental crown is damaged, it will need to be replaced. If the implant begins to move below the gumline, it could be caused by bone mass loss or periodontal disease. If you have a dental implant that falls out or feels loose, contact our office immediately. Our team can do an oral exam and take x-rays to determine what needs to be done to fix the problem. If the original implant can't be reinserted, they will provide other alternatives to resolve the issue.

Reasons for dental implant removal

Dental implants are surgically placed within the jawbone, which is one distinct characteristic that makes them unique. Implants must be cleaned and maintained every day, like natural teeth, using a toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, floss, or Waterpik device, along with professional dental cleanings at least twice a year. An implant may have to be removed due to several reasons. Failure of the implant device is the most common issue and can be caused by:

• Infection underneath the gumline
• A loose abutment or post
• Impingement on facial nerves or displacement into the sinus
• Implant rejection

Need dental implant help in State College, PA?

As a highly favored dental solution, implant dentistry can address missing teeth and offer excellent benefits to those patients that need that type of dental care. Find out what signs point to dental implant removal and what the aftercare process looks like by contacting the dental experts at Advanced Dentistry of Centre County in State College, PA. Contact our office today to schedule a treatment consultation, and get your oral health back on track.