Why Some Dental Implants Fail (and How to Prevent It from Happening to You)

Dental implants are one of the best ways to replace missing teeth. They look natural, feel comfortable, and can last for decades. 

But like any medical or dental procedure, there are situations in which implants don’t heal properly or don’t last as long as they should. 

Our team at K Street Dental & Orthodontic Group in Washington, DC, wants you to know the facts and to be informed about how to avoid a dental implant issue. 

Here’s why some dental implants fail and what you can do to make sure your implants stay strong and healthy.

Why implants sometimes fail

While implants are highly successful, a few common reasons they don’t always work as planned include:

Gum or bone problems

Implants need a solid foundation. If you have gum disease or bone loss, the implant may not stay secure. That’s why we check your gums and jawbone before recommending the procedure.

Not enough bone support

For the implant to fuse properly, you need to have a healthy, strong jawbone. If it’s weak or thin, we may recommend a bone graft to strengthen the area before surgery.

Smoking

Smoking slows healing and increases your risk of infection. It’s one of the top reasons implants fail, so quitting before treatment gives you the best chance of success.

Medical conditions

Health issues like uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders can make it harder for your body to heal, which may affect how well an implant settles in.

Skipping oral care

Even though implants can’t get cavities, the gums and bone around them still need care. Skipping brushing, flossing, or dental checkups can lead to problems that put your implant at risk.

How to prevent implant failure

The good news is that most causes of implant failure are preventable. Here’s how you can protect your investment:

Choose a skilled dentist

Success begins with skilled planning and placement. When you work with our team at K Street Dental & Orthodontic Group, you can rely on our expertise. We perform a careful evaluation of your oral and overall health before proceeding.

Take care of dental issues first

If you have gum disease or tooth decay before getting implants, we can address those issues first to ensure a healthy foundation.

Follow our post-procedure instructions

We’ll provide guidance for your diet, hygiene, and follow-up care after your implant surgery. Following these directions is key to proper healing.

Practice good oral hygiene daily

Brush, floss, and keep up with your checkups to protect both your implants and natural teeth.

Adopt healthy habits

If you smoke, quitting will significantly improve your chances of success. Keeping chronic conditions like diabetes under control also supports healing.

A smile that lasts

Dental implants have a success rate of over 95%, so the odds are in your favor. By taking care of your mouth and overall health, you can make sure your new smile lasts for many years to come.

Learn more about dental implants by scheduling a consultation at our practice. We’re here to guide you every step of the way. Click here now to book an appointment time that works for you.