Osseointegration
Whittier, CA
 Most of the time, getting a dental implant is a standard and successful process. No procedure works 100 percent of the time, however, and this is no exception. While a failed implant is rare, there is no cause for alarm if it should happen to you. Our team at Simon K. Choyee, DDS, Inc. is more than up to the task of helping you through this situation, and it all starts with understanding why it happens.
Below, you will learn all about osseointegration and how to recognize when your new implant may need a little extra help to bring you a stronger, healthier smile. If you are considering getting a dental implant and want to make an appointment to discuss whether you are at risk of osseointegration failure, please call us today at (562) 947-4781.
What Does Osseointegration Mean?
After a dental implant is placed, your body will normally respond in a process called osseointegration. Translating from the Greek & Latin words for "bone" and "to make whole", this natural reaction is what enables implants to permanently bond with your jawbone over time.
Although osseointegration is most regularly related to implant procedures, this is hardly different from what you’d experience when your body heals a broken bone. The process plays a crucial role in recovering from joint replacements, facial reconstructive surgeries, and other procedures.
How Does Osseointegration Help My Implant?
Dental implants are designed to function the same as your natural teeth. They are made up of two parts: The abutment (a tiny metal screw anchoring the implant into your jaw like a tooth root) and the artificial tooth bonded on top. These implants contain many microscopic holes on their surface, which allow osteoblasts (cells for bone formation) and connective tissues to secure the artificial root into the bone.
Simply put, it helps the implant integrate into your jaw. This applies to the All-On-4 implant as well, which is essentially a bridge held together by four implants to help your teeth stay strong & properly positioned. Once your connective tissues bond directly with the implant, its risk of coming loose or falling out is gone. During this time (typically between three to six months), the osseointegration process is carried out until the abutment and implant are completely bonded.
How Can I Tell When My Implant is Failing?
Here are some telltale signs that your implant is not bonding properly. A trained eye like Dr. Simon Choyee may notice some of these before you though. Again, it’s important not to panic:
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The implant has become wobbly over time and may move when you speak or chew. A failed implant will consistently move out of position.
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Pain or swelling
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Infection in the gums. |
Bear in mind; these symptoms do not occur in every instance where osseointegration fails.
What Can Be Done about Osseointegration Failure?
Options for failing implants vary from patient to patient. Depending on your case, Dr. Simon Choyee may recommend an X-ray to re-evaluate your bone growth (implant failure is usually indicated by significant bone loss around the metal root). Afterward, you can discuss your options for future treatment, should you choose to have it done.
For any further questions about osseointegration failure and signs that you may be at risk for it, call Simon K. Choyee, DDS, Inc. to schedule a visit at (562) 947-4781.
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