Existing Patients: (978) 454-9332 | New Patients: (877) 790-5172 |
Advanced cosmetic and general dentistry

Why Did My Dental Implant Bone Graft Fail Three Times?

Posted on by .

I’ve had the same dentist for the past seven years and had no reservations about her placing my dental implants. Several co-workers referred me to this dentist, and three of them had great success with implants from the dentist.

My case must have been unusual for her because she said I needed bone grafting before getting my first implant. After four months, my dentist attempted the implant but said she needed to remove it because the bone was too shallow. I’ve had three surgeries, and I still don’t have a dental implant. I have much respect for my dentist, but I must ask, would I have had a better experience if I had chosen a specialist? – Thanks. Bennie from Tampa

Bennie,

While dental implantology isn’t a formally recognized specialty, some dentists, oral surgeons, and periodontists have advanced training in this area.

Model of a dental implant, including the crown, abutment, and artificial root

After successful bone grafting and dental implant placement, a cosmetic dentist can attach a natural-looking crown

We understand your dentist’s intentions and potential experience with implants. However, bone grafting is a complex procedure that requires specific expertise. Your dentist may be relatively new to this aspect of implant dentistry. Remember, every professional, even the most skilled, has a learning curve when using new techniques.

It’s commendable that your dentist is being honest about the situation. A less ethical practitioner might have proceeded with the implant, potentially leading to complications down the line.

Your dentist’s transparency suggests a commitment to a positive outcome. Dental bridges and implants are viable options for a single tooth replacement, each with advantages and disadvantages. If you prefer a dental implant, consider asking your dentist for a referral to a periodontist (implant specialist), or oral surgeon for bone grafting and implant placement.

After the implant heals, your dentist can restore it with a natural-looking implant crown.

Lowell, Massachusetts, accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek sponsors this post. Read how Dr. Szarek strives to give his patients the best dental care in Lowell.

How long will it take for my dental implants to stop hurting?

Posted on by .

How long will it take for my dental implants to stop hurting? My dentist keeps telling me to give it more time. I got the implants in August to secure my dentures. They are tender overall but when I eat it’s totally uncomfortable. I’ve lost weight because of it. Most of the pain is on the top left side of my mouth. That helps because I usually chew on the right side anyway. It’s just the pressure from chewing. Sometimes it feels like it’s going into my sinuses. How much longer is it going to take before the pain goes away? Thanks Dinah

 

Dinah,

During several weeks after getting dental implants, pain and discomfort are normal. If you received your implants in August, by no means should you be feeling pain when you chew. Your dentist shouldn’t tell you to give it more time.

Although Dr. Szarek would need to examine your implants to let you know exactly what’s going on, your dentist needs to take a closer look to identify the source of your discomfort. If he can’t figure it out, we have some suggestions.

When Implant Dentures Hurt While Eating

We suggest that you give your dentist another opportunity to address the issues. If you’re not satisfied with his efforts:

  • Schedule consultations with at least two, experienced implant dentists.
  • Don’t provide your dentist’s name.
  • Be specific about your symptoms, and when and where you feel the pain.
  • Let each dentist know when you received implants and that the pain occurred after receiving them.

Your implants and your bite (the way your denture teeth fit together) will be carefully checked. It’s possible that more diagnostic studies are needed.

The implant dentist will determine if your denture needs to be adjusted, or if the dental implants are causing your discomfort. If you decide to have the work completed by a new dentist, your dental records can be transferred. Ask your current dentist to give you at least a partial refund toward the corrections that need to be made.

 

This post is sponsored by Lowell, MA dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.

How can I fix a loose dental implant?

Posted on by .

I have 3 teeth implants. I got them in April ’15. One of them is loose. Is there a way for me to get in back in so it will stay at least temporarily? I have a tight deadline to finish some work out of town and I don’t have time to get to a dentist. Is there something over-the-counter that I can get to at least keep it in place? How long would it hold until I can get it cared for properly? Jamisen

Jamisen,

Unfortunately, you will not be able to secure your loose dental implant. It was surgically placed, and it will be to be surgically placed again. This is something that cannot be done in a single day, but it should be a priority.

Your implant surgeon will need to examine the implants and the area in your mouth was placed. The reason for the implant failure will need to be determined before it can be placed again. Implants can loosen because of improper placement, improper healing, or substandard implant fixtures. Smoking can also prevent implants from healing properly.

The implant will be removed, and the implant site will need to heal before the implant is replaced. Bone grafting may be needed, and you may need a new implant. Unfortunately, it will be a few months before your implant is functional again.

See your implant surgeon as soon as possible. Remember that you do have the option to seek a second opinion on the failed dental implant. Even though you have to travel, make your implant a priority. If treatment is delayed, an infection can result. If that happens, the treatment and healing process will be prolonged. So if at all possible, seek help right away.

This post is sponsored by Lowell dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.

My dental implant failed again

Posted on by .

I couldn’t be more frustrated that I am now. Last March (2014) I got 3 dental implants. In September of last year I had problems with one of them. The oral surgeon tried to save it but could not so it was extracted. We gave it 6 months and replaced it, but the same implant had to be removed 3 months ago. Now we are playing watch and wait but I am not sure why. Can I just go ahead and ask that the missing tooth be replaced with a dental bridge or should I continue to wait and see if I can get another implant? How long would I normally have to wait before the surgeon can tell if another implant will work? Mark H.

Mark – Your question can only be answered by getting a second opinion from a skilled implant dentist. Do you know why the implant failed? Was the failure due to the implant fixture, improper surgical placement, or some other reason?

An experienced implant dentist will examine your dental records, implant site, diagnostic studies, and medical history to determine the cause of the implant failure and whether or not it can be prevented in the future.

If you have healthy teeth on either side of the missing one, they can be prepared to accommodate a dental bridge. Keep in mind that the teeth that hold the dental bridge will need to be shaved down so that dental crowns can fit over them.

First, find out if there is good probability for you to receive a new, successful dental implant. Weigh the pros and cons before making a final decision on which treatment option you prefer.

 

This post is sponsored by Lowell dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.