The Unlikely Can Happen
Dental implants aren’t only the most natural-looking and durable tooth replacement option ever made, they also have a 98% success rate. Although dental implant failure is unlikely, it is still possible under certain conditions, including failed bone or gum grafting, bad extractions, bad bridgework, improper implant placement or peri-implantitis. General health problems can also contribute to dental implant failure. No matter the cause, Dr. Rebecca Wagner, a board-certified periodontist, is uniquely qualified to stop implant failure and help you preserve your smile and your investment in your quality of life. She’s dual-certified in periodontics and dental implantology, which means she’s not only an expert in placing dental implants correctly the first time, she’s also exceptionally skilled in treating failing dental implants in Chambersburg, PA. Whether due to oral trauma or peri-implantitis (the most common cause of implant failure), we offer the specialized treatment you need to save your dental implants.
Treating Peri-Implantitis
Peri-implantitis is an infection that generally begins in the gums. Left untreated, peri-implantitis can lead to all of your dental implants falling out, followed by you losing a sizeable portion of the underlying jawbone. The first step in treating peri-implantitis is removing all traces of infection. If you’re suffering from a very advanced stage of peri-implantitis, Dr. Wagner will attempt to save the dental implant by undertaking a more complex level of treatment. During this phase we do a comprehensive cleaning and removal of bacteria below the gumline, then actually remove the diseased or inflamed tissues from your mouth. If you’ve had bone loss around the implants, we can stabilize them through bone grafting, with which we reestablish the bone strength and volume.
Signs Of Peri-Implantitis
- Implant Mobility
- Jawbone Recession
- Gum Recession
- Tender, Inflamed, or Bleeding Gums
- Deep Pockets Around Dental Implants
- Implant Post Exposure
Preventing Future Dental Implant Failure
After you undergo treatment for failing dental implants in Chambersburg, PA, we’ll recommend that you return to our office for ongoing maintenance appointments to prevent peri-implantitis from returning. You can also help by curtailing common risk factors, such as poor dental hygiene. As with many other common conditions, proper brushing and flossing go a long way to preserving your dental health. Teeth grinding and tobacco can also cause peri-implantitis. These are all habits that are within your control, whether through personal discipline or treatment. Working together, you and Dr. Wagner’s team can keep your spectacular smile safe and healthy for many years to come.
