Initially, implant crowns are placed on the teeth with temporary adhesive, which means the crowns may become loose and fall off. In such cases, visiting a dentist allows the crown to be reattached to the tooth. If permanent adhesive can be used, it can be applied to securely bond the implant crowns permanently.
In the past, artificial teeth were used to fill the gaps left by missing teeth. Over time and with advancements in dental science, dentists have been able to help patients with implants, providing a suitable replacement for lost teeth. Through implants, patients no longer face the issues associated with using dentures. Implants are made of titanium, which is compatible with the gums and jawbone, and thus doesn't cause any issues for patients. Those who have lost one or more teeth due to accidents, decay, gum diseases, etc., can benefit from implants as a suitable solution. An implant is placed like a root inside the jawbone and serves as a base for a crown to be placed on it. The implant procedure does not require any grinding of the surrounding teeth. The shape of the dental implant is very similar to a natural tooth and indistinguishable from it. Implant placement should occur once the facial bone has fully grown.
The loosening of a dental implant can have various causes. The most important ones include poor oral hygiene, an improper diet, and not following the dentist's instructions. If you notice that your implant is loosening, it's essential to contact your dentist immediately to start treatment. Below are some of the causes of implant loosening:
One cause of implant loosening is the crown becoming loose. A crown is placed on a natural tooth or implant. The loosening of the crown is not a major issue but requires consultation. If the crown becomes loose, the dentist may either tighten it back into place with screws or replace it with a new one.
Another reason for implant loosening is bone resorption around the root. This is one of the signs that the implant process might have failed. Although implant failure is rare, if it happens, it typically occurs within the first year.
Another reason for implant loosening is a gum disease called peri-implantitis. This is the most common form of gum disease associated with implants. If you’ve just been affected by this disease, take antibiotics and maintain proper oral hygiene to help preserve your implant. If the disease progresses, you’ll need to visit your dentist for treatment, as they will clean the infected area and replace the artificial tooth.
Other reasons for loosening implant crowns include:
Sometimes, when the dentist places the implant base into the jaw, the base may not fully integrate. In such cases, the prosthesis may feel tight initially but can loosen over time as you eat.
If the prosthesis is not properly attached to the implant or if it’s too long compared to other teeth, it may be subject to pressure and separate.
Short screws connecting the prosthesis to the base.
If the dentist doesn't use the correct angle during the implant placement, pressure from chewing can loosen the implant.
It’s beneficial to recognize the symptoms of implant loosening so you can notice it if it happens and visit your dentist. If you feel that the implant has moved or shifted in your jaw, it’s time to consult your dentist. However, other signs include:
Pain
Bone resorption
Bleeding when touching the implant
Change in the color of the tissue around the implant
For this reason, follow-up visits to your dentist after an implant procedure are crucial. If any issue arises with your implant, take it seriously and consult with your dentist to diagnose and fix the problem.
The signs of a loose crown are very similar to those of a loose implant. In both cases, you need to visit your dentist to identify the underlying cause and address it. Until your visit, be gentle with the crown and surrounding areas.
Similar to the causes of loosening, treatment options for loose implants vary. The choice of treatment depends on the patient's condition and the dentist's recommendations.
If the implant is loose, the most effective treatment is to remove the crown and clean the infected area. When facing implant loosening, waiting does no good and may encourage infection. The dentist will decide whether the implant should be replaced or if simply replacing the crown will solve the issue. However, the procedure should be done in a calm and relaxed state.
Only a gum surgeon or implant specialist can decide whether removing the implant is the best option, especially in cases where the implant hasn’t integrated properly with the jawbone.
If your dental implant falls out, don’t panic. Sometimes, it’s not the implant itself that falls out, but one of its parts, such as the abutment, screw, or crown. In any case, contact your dentist calmly and schedule an appointment. In the meantime, you can do the following:
Keep the fallen part.
Avoid chewing or eating with the implant.
Rinse your mouth with non-alcoholic mouthwash more than three times a day.
Dental implants are one of the best ways to fill the gaps left by lost teeth. The implanted tooth requires just as much care, if not more, than a natural tooth. Consistent maintenance increases the longevity of the implant. Regular oral hygiene practices such as brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash are enough. However, be extra careful because bacteria may accumulate around the implant. After the implant crown is placed, you should modify your diet. Eating hard or sticky foods could damage the implant crown.
