When Dental Implants Get Damaged
It doesn’t happen very often, but just like real teeth, dental implants can become damaged even when we’re taking great care of them. It could be the result of 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 come visit Dr. Morshedi for repairs. If you live in Palo Alto, Mountain View, or Redwood City, California or the surrounding area, we would like to serve you and welcome you to our family.
How Does Dr. Morshedi Repair Implants?
The way Dr. Morshedi repairs an implant depends on how it is damaged. If the problem is only with the crown, it can usually be repaired or replaced without having to do anything to the implant itself. When the damage is to the implant or post, however, the repair process becomes more complex. First, the implant will be removed, which may require surgery. After a healing period, if the jaw bone is healthy enough, a new implant can be placed.
What To Do If Your Implant Is Damaged
Do not attempt to self-diagnose a problem with your implant or fix it yourself. This is definitely a job for a professional. Attempting to fix it yourself could make things worse, including damaging the underlying jaw bone. If you’ve noticed any problems with your implant, give us a call at (650) 494-1122 or send us an email so that we can schedule a repair appointment.
Dental Implant Repair and Troubleshooting
While dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution, occasional issues can arise — whether from an ill-fitting crown, an implant that didn’t fully integrate with the bone, or an injury to the area. Dr. Morshedi evaluates each case individually to determine whether the issue is isolated to the crown, which can often be repaired quickly, or involves the implant itself, which requires a more involved repair process.
If you notice looseness, discomfort, or visible damage around an existing implant, prompt evaluation is important to prevent further complications to the surrounding bone and gum tissue. Patients from Palo Alto, Mountain View, and Redwood City trust Palo Alto Dental Center for implant troubleshooting because Dr. Morshedi has experience diagnosing whether a repair, replacement, or additional grafting is the right next step.
Dental Implant Repair Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs my dental implant needs repair?
Signs include looseness, pain, swelling, or a visible chip or crack in the crown. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an evaluation promptly rather than waiting.
Can a damaged implant crown be repaired without removing the implant?
In many cases, yes — if the damage is limited to the crown, it can often be repaired or replaced without disturbing the implant itself. Dr. Morshedi will evaluate the extent of the damage to determine the right approach.
What happens if the implant itself needs to be replaced?
If the implant post is damaged, it typically needs to be removed, followed by a healing period before a new implant can be placed, provided the jawbone is healthy enough to support it.