Why My Dental Implant Screw Fell Out: A Cautionary Tale

What does a Dental Implant Screw do?

A dental implant screw is a small, threaded screw that holds your tooth or bridge in place. The screw is inserted into the bone where it will stay for life, replacing a missing tooth or support structure for your jaw bone.

Placing an implant involves drilling holes through your jawbone so that when placed properly during surgery, it can be secured by these special screws that securely hold everything together.

How Are Dental Implant Screws Fixed?

Dental implants in Concord, CA, are placed in two steps: The first involves the placement of a titanium post into the jawbone using a surgical drill. This process can take several hours and requires local anesthesia. Once the posts are placed, they will bond with your bone over time, which can take several months. This process is done under local anesthesia and can be completed in one visit. After your implant is placed, the next step is to allow the bone to heal around it. This process can take between four and six months. Next, a crown or bridge will be fabricated by our dentists and placed over the implant to restore your smile.

Why did My Implant Screw Fall Out?

There are several reasons why your dental implant screw fell out, including the following.

• Infection

Infection can occur at the site of the implant, or it can develop in the surrounding tissue. Infection is usually the result of bacteria getting into the implant site. This can happen through poor oral hygiene, gum disease, or an injury to the mouth.

• Inflammation

Inflammation is another common cause of dental implant failure. It can be caused by infection, but it can also be caused by other conditions such as allergies, autoimmune diseases, and certain medications.

• Damage to the supporting bone

Damage to the supporting bone is another potential cause of dental implant failure. This can happen if the implant is not placed correctly in the bone, if there is not enough bone to support the implant, or if the bone around the implant deteriorates for any reason.

What are the Symptoms of a Loose Tooth Implant Screw?

Loose dental implants are a serious problem that can lead to implant failure. The most common symptom of a loose dental implant is pain. Other symptoms include:

• Sensitivity to temperature changes
• Difficulty chewing or biting
• Looseness of the implant in the jawbone
• Mobility of the implant
• Inflammation and tenderness around the implant site

What Can You Do If Your Dental Implant Fell Out?

If your dental implant has fallen out, the first thing you should do is seek professional help. Your dentist in Concord, CA, can assess the situation and determine the ideal treatment. In some cases, the implant can be re-implanted. However, if the bone around the implant has deteriorated, you may need to have a new implant placed.

What Are the Consequences of a Loose Dental Implant Screw?

When a dental implant becomes loose, it can have several consequences. First and foremost, it can be extremely painful. The implant is made of metal, and when it rubs against the surrounding bone or tissue, it can cause irritation and inflammation. This can lead to swelling, redness, and pain.

In addition to being painful, a loose dental implant can also lead to an infection. When the implant rubs against the bone or tissue, it can create tiny fissures that bacteria can enter. Once inside the body, these bacteria can multiply and cause an infection. Symptoms of an infection include fever, chills, and swelling. If left untreated, an infection can spread throughout the body and become life-threatening.

Finally, a loose dental implant can also damage the surrounding teeth. When the implant moves around, it can pressure the adjacent teeth. This pressure can cause the teeth to shift out of place or even break.

How Can You Prevent Dental Implant From Loosening?

Maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist are important to help prevent your dental implant from loosening. Be sure to brush and floss daily, and avoid smoking and using tobacco products, which can increase your risk of implant failure. If you have any concerns about your dental implants, discuss them with your dentist.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Concord Dental & Orthodontics for more information about dental implants and how to prevent them from loosening.