Can Dental Implants Fail? Risk Factors Associated with Implant Failure

Due to advancing technology, lower costs, and longer life expectancy, the use of dental implants is becoming increasingly popular. In fact, according to a study cited in a 2009 issue of Implant Practice, over 700,000 implants were inserted annually in the U.S. alone and are expected to increase at a sustained growth of 9.4% for the next several years. Nearly all dental implants currently employed are root-form end osseous implants, in which a titanium screw is inserted into the bone and functions as a tooth root in its natural state. Made of biocompatible material, the titanium screw fuses with the surrounding bone, in a process called osseous integration. This process allows the implant to function as a natural root, creating natural functionality and bone preservation. With a 95% success rate, dental implants are a permanent dental solution for those missing one or more teeth, but like all surgeries, there can be some issues that contribute to implant failure and should be known to any person considering dental implants.

Failed Osseo integration

Osseo integration is essential for dental implants to work and function properly; the process contributes to both the structure and function of the mouth. When the bone doesn't form around the implant properly, the implant will become loose, fall out, or show signs of bone deterioration and/or loss. Contributing factors for failed osseointegration include incorrect positioning of the implant, lack of bone volume and density, overloading, sudden trauma, or broken implants. Finding an experienced oral surgeon and prostho dentist, such as the clinicians surgically placing dental implants in Chicago, Illinois, is essential; the team can eliminate these issues associated with implant failure by working together and ensuring quality dental implants and care. In fact, a study cited in the Journal of Oral Implant logy found that implant success rates often rely on the experience of the surgeon. Implant failure was twice as likely in cases where the oral surgeon had performed less than 50 implant surgeries. The study also found a 12% failure rate among surgeons with less than five years of experience.

Peri-Implantitis

If bacteria are present during or post-surgery, peri-implantitis (infection) can set in; a form of periodontal disease, peri-implantitis inflames the bone and gum, resulting in bone deterioration and implant failure. Peri-implantitis often occurs if the patient is diabetic, smokes, has thin gums, or neglects oral hygiene. Practicing good oral hygiene and dental follow-ups every four months is essential; if infection has set in, it can be addresed.

External Factors

The majority of failures occur from the issues mentioned above, but some external risk factors can lead to implant failure; if these factors are present in a patient, he/she should consult the implant clinicians. These factors include:

SmokingBruxismUncontrolled Type II DiabetesBisphosphonates

High Rates of Success

Although some risk factors and conditions can cause implant failure, over 95% of all dental implants function successfully. Finding an experienced, passionate team of dental clinicians (such as those embedding dental implants in Chicago) is imperative to the implant process; coordinating treatment planning, surgery, and aftercare results in both a positive experience and a beautiful, natural-looking smile that the patient will cherish for a lifetime.

Ashley Wesley writes SEO content for clients seeking higher Google search rankings. He enjoys the challenge of writing about new, state-of-the-art medical and dental technology, including new research concerning dental implants . He also enjoys helping clients find the best clinicians offering dental implants in Chicago , Illinois.

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