Can Dental Implants Be Removed?
While it’s rare, removing a dental implant does become necessary in certain scenarios. It is understandable for patients to have concerns about dental implant removal, including how it will feel and whether it’s possible to replace them. At My Dentist in Plano, Dr. Darren K. Dickson is proud to offer a wide array of general, advanced, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry services, including dental implant removal and replacement. Keep reading to get the answers to all of your questions about removing and replacing dental implants in Plano, TX.
What is a dental implant?
If you’re like many people, you may think that a dental implant is simply an artificial tooth. However, a dental implant is actually the titanium screw that is inserted into the gums and eventually supports a tooth restoration, such as a crown, bridge, or denture. Dental implants can be extremely beneficial in restoring a beautiful, functional smile for patients in the Plano/Frisco/McKinney area who have damaged or missing teeth, and they also work to keep the jaw healthy and structurally sound.
Why would a dental implant need to be removed?
In the vast majority of cases, dental implants are successful, well-tolerated, and long-lasting devices. However, there are rare instances when a dental implant may need to be removed. Most commonly, dental implant removal is performed due to implant failure, which can be classified in two ways:
- Early failure of dental implant: typically occurs within a few months of the initial procedure and is often related to infection or allergic/adverse reaction
- Late failure of dental implant: occurs one year or more after placement of a dental implant and may have a number of potential causes
In either case, dental implant failure is often the result of:
- Infection
- Unhealthy bone tissue
- Decayed or damaged tissue
- Implant does not fully integrate with the jawbone (loose implant)
- Fractured implant
- Trauma
- Poor surgical skill
- Poor oral care/hygiene
How are dental implants removed?
There are a few different approaches for dental implant removal, each of which has its own set of appropriate uses and applications. During your initial consultation for dental implant removal, Dr. Dickson will thoroughly examine your mouth, review your dental records, perform any necessary imaging studies, and discuss your available options at length before determining the most appropriate type of dental implant removal for you. Depending on the nature and severity of the case, including whether there is significant tissue damage or infection, the procedure may need to be performed in several stages and may involve additional treatments to restore the patient’s oral health.
Can a dental implant be replaced after it’s removed?
In most cases, it is possible to replace a damaged or failed implant with a new implant. For some patients, this can be completed in a single step. For patients with compromised bone structure, active infection, tissue decay, and other problems, however, it may be necessary to treat the affected area and let it heal completely before implanting a new screw. Additionally, some patients may require bone grafting or a more extensive procedure to prepare the area for supporting a new implant.
How can I avoid dental implant removal?
By selecting a highly qualified and experienced dental provider, like Dr. Dickson, to place your implant and adhering to a proper oral hygiene routine – including daily brushing, rinsing, and flossing – your dental implants can last for many years, if not forever. Patients should also schedule regular dental cleanings and exams to further preserve the life of their dental implants.
Facing the removal of your dental implant in Plano, TX? We can help!
With advanced training and experience in implant dentistry, including earning fellowship status and faculty positions within some of the most prestigious restorative dentistry organizations in the nation, Dr. Darren K. Dickson can help you build, restore, or improve your smile with dental implants in Plano, TX. Call My Dentist in Plano to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Dickson today, and find out how removing or replacing your dental implants may be easier and more convenient than you ever thought possible!