If you’re one of the millions of people who have had a dental implant, you know that they can be a lifesaver. A dental implant is a titanium post that is inserted into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth. They are very sturdy and can last for many years, but like any other type of device, they can break. So, what do you do when your dental implant breaks? This can be a scary situation, but don’t worry – we’re here to help! In this blog post, we will discuss what to do if your dental implant breaks, as well as the options that are available to you. Don’t let a broken dental implant ruin your life – read on for more information!
The Strength of Dental Implants
Dental implants are an excellent and durable option for replacing lost teeth. However, they are still vulnerable to damage. They are almost as strong as natural teeth — which can also break when subjected to undue force. Dental implants may also weaken over time by harmful oral habits such as ice chewing, biting on hard foods, teeth grinding, or trauma. These factors and preexisting medical conditions can reduce a dental implant’s lifespan. Nevertheless, dental implants are often preferred for how they allow patients who have lost their natural teeth to regain dental functions.
Knowing You Need Emergency Dental Implants
Finding a specialist for emergency dental implants is only half of the battle. How do you know when you need dental implants in the first place? There are a few common instances that could lead to emergency dental implants.
How to Find Dental Care
Finding the best dental care for you may seem difficult if you don’t already have a regular dentist you trust. However, because technology is so advanced these days, finding a good emergency dentist will be easier than you’d think. The best way to find care in your area is by searching for “dental implants near me.” This will lead you to multiple businesses to choose from. The best ones are those with good online reviews and experience.
Missing Teeth
An accident might cause you to need emergency dental implants if the outcome is you lose your teeth. With a dental implant procedure, you can get those gaps in your mouth filled. This treatment makes for a natural look so that no one will know the difference.
Loose Dentures, Bridges, or Partials
If you decide on dentures, bridges, or partials to mend your missing teeth, but they aren’t working out for you, you may need emergency dental implants. Dental implants are a more permanent option because they are secured to the mouth. You won’t have to worry about them falling out or loosening and giving you trouble.
Broken or Cracked Teeth
A chipped tooth is another reason you may need emergency dental implants. If there isn’t enough natural tooth to save, a dentist can replace your broken teeth.
Other reasons to get Emergency Dental Implants
- Problems when eating, chewing, or speaking
- Infected teeth
- Facial changes
- Implant damages
A dentist may try to correct problems without using dental implants beforehand. If this is the case and those attempted solutions fail, dental implants may be the only other option.
Causes of Implant Breakage
Dental implants may break if subjected to too much pressure before fully integrating or fusing with the jawbone. Other parts of the restoration can also be damaged. Wear and tear can break the abutment (the connector that holds the crown to the implant). If the dental implant feels loose or awkward, the issue may be due to a damaged screw in the abutment.
The dental crown that constitutes the tooth structure can typically last for about 10 to 15 years before needing a replacement. However, the crown may fail prematurely without good oral habits or proper care.
Repairing a Broken Dental Implant
If the titanium screw of an implant is broken, the only option is to extract it and replace it with another implant. Dental professionals may need to perform a bone graft before placing a new implant. Bone grafts augment the bone’s structure and help to ensure the jaw is strong and dense enough to hold an implant. After the bone graft, the patient usually must wait for months before the dentist can replace the implant. Read more here.
If the abutment or screw is broken, the dentist will only need to restore those parts, not the implant. If the crown breaks or cracks, impressions of the mouth will be taken and forwarded to the dental lab. This will be used to fabricate new crowns that will go naturally into the mouth.
Preventing Damage to Dental Implants
If the patient gets same-day implants, it is essential not to apply too much pressure on the teeth at first. Follow the dentist’s instructions after dental implant surgery to avoid complications. Teeth grinding places excess pressure on the implant and crown. The dental professional can provide a custom nightguard to protect the teeth from the effects of bruxism.
In Conclusion
With adequate care, a dental implant can last a lifetime. Practice good oral hygiene and visit the dentist regularly for checkups. Call a dentist immediately if you experience any issue with the implant, including breakage, and need implant restoration. They will provide instructions on how to return your smile to its original state.
Getting the Dental Care You Need
Getting the dental care you need is essential to your oral health. Find a good dentist through online reviews to have someone you trust if an emergency occurs. If any of the situations in this blog describe you, it could be necessary to get emergency dental implants. Call us right away so we can schedule a same-day appointment with you!
References:
https://eurodenture.com/blog/broken-dental-implant/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5644013/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dental-implant-surgery/about/pac-20384622