For more than 95% of patients, dental implants are a successful procedure. However, there are some circumstances that, sadly, can cause these prosthetic tooth roots to fail, leading to the need to remove them. If one of your implants is no longer functioning as it should, and your dentist determines that extracting it is the best option, what can you expect from the procedure? Here is a brief guide to what is involved in removing a failed implant in Watertown:
Every Case Is Unique
Just like every patient is unique, so is each implant removal surgery. There are multiple factors that can influence the difficulty and complexity of the procedure. Such factors include:
- How long the implants have been in place. If you have had your implants for years, removing them will likely be more complex than removing them from an individual who only recently received them.
- Where in the mouth the implants are located. Taking an implant out of the upper jaw is usually easier than taking one from the lower jaw.
- Nearby structures. Implants that are near a nerve or another critical structure tend to be somewhat tricky to remove.
- The size and shape of the implants. Long, narrow implants are more difficult to extract than shorter, wider ones.
The Removal Procedure
Before your surgery, your dental team will use advanced imaging equipment to examine the implant and gain an understanding of the tissues that surround it. After they plan their surgical approach, they will carefully remove the implant while causing as little damage as possible to nearby structures.
Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to receive a new dental implant right away, perhaps along with a bone graft for your jaw. In most cases, however, a healing period of several months is necessary before a new implant can be inserted.
You can expect to be comfortable during the surgery. Your dental team will numb your mouth, and you may be sedated.
After the Surgery
Your dental team will give you detailed instructions to help you enjoy a smooth, complication-free recovery. Their advice may include things like avoiding certain foods, adjusting your oral hygiene habits, and abstaining from alcohol and tobacco. You can expect some soreness, bleeding, and swelling immediately after your procedure. However, any discomfort should subside within a few days to a few weeks.
Be sure to attend all recommended follow-up appointments. Your dentist will want to monitor your recovery and, when possible, plan to help you once again enjoy all the benefits of implant-supported tooth replacement.
Are you dealing with a failed dental implant? You can rest assured that your dental team will make the removal procedure as easy as possible — they want to help you get your oral health back on track ASAP!
Meet the Practice
All Dental in Watertown, MA, features a team of talented dentists, specialists, and staff members who want patients to enjoy comfortable, expert care. If you are concerned that one of your dental implants may be failing, we are ready to assist you. Contact us at 617-207-0947.