If you have had a dental implant surgically placed in the past and are having difficulties with it, it may be time to see a specialist about dental implant restoration. This becomes necessary when implants fail, become loose because of failed osseointegration (bonding of the titanium to the jaw), or the crown portion breaks or comes off. Regardless of the reason why it occurs, it must be dealt with in order to retain or regain function.
A Rare Need
Dental implants can be successful at rates as high as 99 percent, depending on the dentist who performs the procedure. This means it is extremely rare for implants to fail. However, these situations do occur. The most common cause of a failed implant is gum disease that has advanced to its more serious stages.
Restoring the Crown
There are three main parts of a dental implant: the titanium root, the crown, and the abutment that joins the pieces together. Any one of these parts can fail and require restoration. When a crown fails, it simply requires a new crown to be fabricated and joined to the implant. In some cases, the existing crown can even be repaired without removal, much in the same way a filling is placed in a natural tooth. This is by far the easiest restoration to perform.
Restoring the Root
In some cases, it is the root that needs to be restored. In this situation, the entire implant needs to be removed and replaced using a multi-step process. This may involve surgical removal of the implant, a bone graft, healing, and the surgical placement of the new implant. This is a long, yet necessary treatment plan that can and does restore full function.
Patients with dental implant damage do not need to be afraid of getting restorations. Your local Waco, TX restorative dentists, Dr. Miller and Dr. Hinds of Creekwood Dental Arts are experts at dental implant restorations. Contact our office today to schedule an evaluation. Restore that smile!