Accidents happen unexpectedly, and when they involve the face or mouth, the consequences can be severe. A sports injury, a fall, or any impact can result in a broken dental implant. If you find yourself in such a situation, it’s important not to panic, as dental implants, like natural teeth, are susceptible to damage despite their durability.
In this article, our certified periodontists provide valuable insights into dealing with a broken dental implant, including the causes of implant failure and the various restoration options available to you.
The Reasons Behind Dental Implant Breakage
Dental implants are a popular option for replacing missing teeth. They comprise of three parts, namely, the implant, abutment, and crown. However, the crown and abutment are the most susceptible to damage. While a dental implant crown can last up to 15 years, it can break due to factors such as trauma or poor oral hygiene. Signs of a broken crown include cracks in the tooth-colored crown. On the other hand, if your dental implant feels loose, it could be due to a worn-out abutment, which holds the crown to the implant and is subject to normal wear and tear. In this article, we delve into the causes of dental implant breakage and offer valuable insights on how to prevent it.
It is uncommon, but possible for the implant to fracture. This can occur if there is too much pressure on the implant before it has fully integrated with the jawbone, which typically happens after implant placement.
Repairing a Broken Dental Implant: Options and Procedures
When a dental implant breaks, there are only two options to consider for repair – repair or replacement. The decision on which option to choose depends on the extent of the damage.
If the implant crown is broken, our team of periodontists at IstanBest Clinic will conduct a comprehensive examination of your implant site to evaluate the integrity of the implant. A digital impression of your mouth is taken to create a new custom crown as a replacement. In some cases, we may provide you with a temporary crown to protect the implant from further damage. If the abutment is broken, we will replace it with a new one if we find no further damage to the dental implant.
In rare cases where the implant itself is broken, replacement is the only option. Our experienced periodontists will remove the implant and replace it with a new one. Depending on the condition of your jawbone, a bone graft may be necessary to strengthen it for the new implant.
Taking care of a Broken Dental Implant: Steps to Take and Tips for Maintenance
After undergoing a dental implant procedure, our periodontists will provide you with a post-op care packet containing information on how to care for your implant and alleviate discomfort.
Our goal at IstanBest Clinic is to ensure that your experience with dental implants is comfortable and successful, and this is why we only use high quality products to ensure a great and seamless experience.
If you find yourself with a broken dental implant, follow these steps:
- Collect all the pieces of the broken implant and place them in a container or bag.
- Contact our medical consultant line to schedule an appointment for repair or replacement.
- If you experience severe discomfort, use a cold compress on the implant area.
Broken dental implants are rare, but they require prompt attention. Please don’t hesitate to call us immediately to schedule your appointment. Our team will do everything possible to see you the same day and help you restore your beautiful and healthy smile, from your teeth to your gums!
With proper care and maintenance, your dental implant can last a lifetime. Establish a strong oral hygiene routine, schedule regular dental check-ups, and receive a dental cleaning every six months to ensure your implant’s longevity. If you are considering getting dental implants and are looking for the best dental implant experience, we invite you to request a free consultation with our team.