What Happens if a Dental Implant Breaks?

Broken Dental Implant

Welcome to the Marmaris Dental Center blog, where we aim to provide valuable insights and information to help you maintain optimal oral health. Today, we’re addressing many of our patients’ concerns: What happens if a dental implant breaks?

Understanding Dental Implants

Before we discuss the specifics of broken implants, let’s briefly discuss dental implants. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, usually made from titanium, surgically implanted into the jawbone. Over time, they integrate with the bone, providing a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth. They are celebrated for their durability and for mimicking natural teeth’ look, feel, and function.

The Possibility of Breaking

Dental implants are designed to be a long-lasting solution for tooth loss, with a success rate of over 95%. However, like any medical procedure, they are not exempt from potential complications. Although the implant itself breaking is rare, it can happen, and it’s usually due to several factors such as trauma, improper placement, or natural wear and tear over many years.

Signs of a Problem

If your dental implant feels loose or you experience discomfort around the implant site, it might indicate a problem. Other signs include difficulty chewing or a visible crack in the crown attached to the implant. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to contact your dentist immediately.

What To Do If Your Implant Breaks

  1. Don’t Panic: The first step is not to panic. Modern dentistry offers solutions for nearly every problem.
  2. Seek Immediate Dental Advice: Contact Marmaris Dental Center or your dental care provider when you suspect something is wrong. Quick action can prevent further complications.
  3. Evaluation: Your dentist will assess the situation to determine whether the breakage involves the implant or the crown. An X-ray or a CT scan may be necessary to understand the extent of the issue.
  4. Treatment Options: If the crown is damaged, replacing it is relatively straightforward. However, if the implant has failed, the treatment might involve removing it, allowing the area to heal, and then considering the possibility of placing a new implant.

Prevention is Key

While some situations are out of your control, you can take steps to minimize the risk of implant breakage:

  • Follow Good Oral Hygiene Practices: Brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and regular dental check-ups can keep your implant and surrounding teeth healthy.
  • Wear a Mouthguard: If you participate in sports or grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can protect your implants from excessive force.
  • Avoid Hard Foods: Chewing on hard items like ice or candies can damage your implants.

Conclusion

At Marmaris Dental Center, our priority is your oral health and comfort. While a broken implant can be concerning, with modern dental technology and our expert team, it is manageable. Remember, proper care and regular dental check-ups are the key to long-lasting dental implants. If you have any concerns about your dental implants or wish to learn more about our services, please get in touch with us. Together, we can ensure your smile remains bright and healthy for years.