Implant Restorations At Dr. MIMI Cabanban Family Dentistry

When Dental Implants Get Damaged

It doesn’t happen very often, but just like natural teeth, dental implants can become damaged even when we’re taking great care of them. It could result from the implant not bonding sufficiently to the jaw bone, or the jaw bone itself could be the problem. If your implant becomes cracked, chipped, or feels loose, it’s time to visit Dr. Cabanban in Lakewood, CA. We want to help you with restorative dentistry and welcome you to our dental family.

How Does Dr. Cabanban Perform Implant Restorations?

How Dr. Cabanban performs an implant restoration depends on how it is damaged. Suppose the problem is only with a crown or bridge. In that case, it can be repaired or replaced without touching the implant. 

However, the repair process becomes more complex if the implant or post is damaged. First, the implant must be removed, which may require surgery. After healing, a new dental implant procedure will occur if the jaw bone is healthy enough.

Caring for a Dental Implant

You should maintain excellent oral hygiene habits to ensure your implant restoration lasts long-term. An implant obviously can’t get a cavity like a normal tooth. Still, the surrounding tissue can be vulnerable to infection because it lacks the periodontal ligament between the gum and implant. We encourage dental implant patients to diligently brush and floss to avoid problems like peri-implantitis.

Implants are artificial teeth placed into the jawbone and feel and function the same way as the roots of teeth. Implants reduce the risk of bone loss that comes with losing teeth. They also won’t slip and slide while you’re trying to chew your food or engaged in conversation. 

Taking great care of implants so restoration isn’t necessary is the same as taking care of natural teeth. Implants can replace individual teeth or be used as anchors to support full or partial dentures.

Peri-Implantitis

Half of all American adults are estimated to have some form of periodontal disease. Unfortunately, dental implant patients are not immune. When gum disease develops around an implant, it is called peri-implant mucositis. Unlike common gum disease, peri-implant mucositis can spread more easily because implants lack the natural teeth’s physical barrier against bacteria.

While peri-implant mucositis can be treated and reversed like regular gum disease, it becomes much more complicated if it progresses to peri-implantitis. Peri-implantitis can compromise the underlying bone structure and jeopardize the entire implant, necessitating surgical intervention. Proper oral hygiene is critical for maintaining an implant and the surrounding gum and bone in good condition, especially for implants that need restoration.

What causes dental implants to fail?

There are many reasons why dental implants may fail. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, and certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, can increase the risk of implant failure. Additionally, the implant may not integrate properly with the jawbone, or the implant may become infected.

How can I prevent implant failure?

Maintaining good oral hygiene is vital to preventing implant failure. This includes brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. It’s also essential to avoid smoking and to manage any medical conditions that may increase your risk of implant failure.

What are the signs of a failed dental implant? 

Symptoms of a failed dental implant may include pain, swelling, redness, or bleeding around the implant site. The implant may also feel loose or unstable, and the surrounding bone may begin to deteriorate.

What To Do If Your Implant Is Damaged?

Please do not attempt to self-diagnose a problem with your implant or fix it yourself. Implant restoration is a job for an experienced professional. Attempting to fix it yourself could worsen things, including damaging the underlying jawbone. 

Get Your Dental Implant Restoration in Lakewood, California

If you are experiencing any issues with your dental implant, don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact Dr. MiMi Cabanban Family Dentistry in Lakewood today at 562-461-2991 or email us to schedule a repair appointment. 

Our team of dental experts will work with you to restore your implant to its former glory, helping you to maintain excellent oral health in the long term. You can also learn more about our practice by visiting our business page and checking the map for directions before heading our way. We look forward to seeing you and helping you with your implant restoration needs.