Although dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution for missing teeth, they can occasionally fail or become dislodged. If an implant falls out, it is important to contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately to determine the cause and appropriate course of action.
There are several reasons why an implant may fall out, including:
- Implant failure: Implant failure can occur due to various reasons, such as infection, bone loss, or a lack of integration with the jawbone. In this case, the implant may become loose and eventually fall out.
- Physical trauma: If the implant is subjected to excessive force or trauma, it may become dislodged or fall out.
- Gum disease: Gum disease can cause bone loss and affect the stability of the implant, which may cause it to fall out.
If your implant falls out, your dentist will examine the implant site to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. Depending on the cause, your dentist may need to perform additional tests, such as x-rays, to evaluate the bone and gum tissue.
If the implant has become loose due to infection, bone loss, or a lack of integration, your dentist may need to remove the implant and perform additional bone grafting or other procedures to prepare the site for a new implant.
If the implant has fallen out due to physical trauma or gum disease, your dentist may be able to reposition or replace the implant, depending on the extent of the damage.
In some cases, your dentist may recommend alternative tooth replacement options, such as a dental bridge or dentures, depending on the severity of the problem.
Overall, if an implant falls out, it is important to seek prompt dental care to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. With proper care and management, dental implant failures can often be corrected or prevented, and the implant can be restored to provide a long-lasting solution for missing teeth.