Dental implants in Jacksonville provide a truly extraordinary way to replace missing teeth. If they are properly installed and well cared for, they can look amazing and perhaps even last a lifetime. But what if something goes wrong? Unfortunately, complications sometimes arise, and you may discover that one of your implants is loose. How can you tell if your implant is having a problem, why does this happen, and what should you do about it?
Identifying Implant Problems
Natural teeth are attached to your bone via stretchy ligaments; therefore, they are capable of very slight movements. Implants, on the other hand, should not move at all. They bond directly with the jawbone, so they should never budge. If you notice any movement at all in your implant, even if it is very subtle, you should see your implant dentist in Jacksonville right away.
Other signs that indicate that not all is well with your implants include:
- Abnormal redness or swelling in the gums
- An uncomfortable bite
- Pain around the implant site after the normal healing period for implant surgery
If you notice any of these symptoms, your implant may become loose if it is not loose already.
Why Do Implants Become Loose?
Implant problems may occur because a patient doesn’t follow instructions following their surgery. In other cases, complications happen for no apparent reason at all. Once in a while, though, the fault lies with the dentist. Many general dentists offer implant services, but they lack sufficient training to do a truly excellent job. The dentist may not place an implant correctly or create a restoration that does not fit as well as it should. The result can be extra pain for patients and an increased risk of implant failure.
What to Do About a Loose Implant
As soon as you notice that you have a problem with one of your implants, make an appointment with a true implant expert — not a general dentist. Someone with advanced training in implants is in the best position to assess the situation and recommend a solution.
- If the implant restoration is loose, it is wise to see a prosthodontist in Jacksonville, such as Dr. Matthew Nawrocki. He specializes in crafting crowns, bridges, and dentures that truly work with your body. He may be able to repair or replace your restoration so it fits securely in your mouth for many years to come.
- If the implant itself is loose, visit someone who has advanced training in implant placement. Dr. Rich Aguila, your periodontist in Jacksonville, is such a person.
How are your implants doing? If you are experiencing problems, please visit a specialist who may be able to restore your smile and get you back to loving your new teeth!
More About Your Dentist in Jacksonville
Drs. Nawrocki and Aguila are your implant experts in Jacksonville. They work together, putting their skills to use to help their patients enjoy all the benefits of a complete, sturdy smile. If you have questions about how they may be able to help you, please get in touch with our office at 904-683-4781.