Loose, moving tooth implant — what next?

What contributes to problems with implants?

There is a group of risk factors that can lead to problems with implants. Their early diagnosis and appropriate treatment increase the chance of success of the procedure. Among the most important are:

• Autoimmune diseases, such as diabetes or arthritis, which make it difficult for the implant to heal and integrate into the bone.
• The use of bisphosphonates, drugs that affect bone metabolism, which can hinder recovery after surgery.
• Poor blood supply to the gums, often caused by smoking or taking certain medications.
• Improper distribution of pressure forces on the implant during biting and chewing, resulting from incorrect implant placement.
• Poor gum condition, including gingivitis and periodontitis, as well as lack of oral hygiene.
• Insufficient quantity or quality of bone at the implant site.

An experienced implantologist can minimize these risks by applying appropriate preparatory procedures and control after surgery.

The implant is moving — what to do?

First you need to determine what exactly is moving: an implant embedded in the bone, a healing screw, a fastener or a prosthetic crown.

Loose healing screw

The healing screw is a temporary element that is mounted on the implant during the healing of the gums. It can loosen on its own, which is not a serious problem and usually only requires a visit to the dentist to tighten it. At the time of healing, you should not touch the screw, so as not to disturb the osteointegration process.

Movable implant in the bone

The mobility of the implant in the bone usually means that there is no proper osteointegration, that is, the implant does not grow with the bone. This can be due to inflammation of the peri-implant tissues (periimplantitis), systemic diseases or poor bone quality, among others. Symptoms include pain, swelling, redness and mobility of the implant. In such a situation, a quick dental consultation and an X-ray are necessary. An implant that has not integrated into the bone most often has to be removed.

Movable prosthetic crown

Often, a movable crown gives the impression of a moving implant. The reason may be mechanical damage, defective workmanship, or de-cementing of the crown from the fastener. Habits such as grinding your teeth can speed up this process. A visit to the dentist will allow you to assess the condition of the crown and, if necessary, repair or replace it.

Implant Removal — When Is It Necessary?

Removal of the implant is a last resort and is only taken if the implant is movable, there is significant bone loss, the infection does not go away, or the implant is mechanically damaged. The removal procedure is performed under local anesthesia and is carried out in such a way as to damage the bone as little as possible. After removal, re-implantation can be planned, often after a period of healing and bone regeneration.

Prevention of problems with implants

• The choice of an experienced implantologist and a reputable office.
• Accurate diagnosis and treatment of systemic and local diseases before surgery.
• Ensuring adequate quantity and quality of bone (e.g. through augmentation procedures).
• Careful oral hygiene and regular check-ups after the procedure.
• Avoiding smoking and excessive strain on the implant.
• Prompt response to any disturbing symptoms.

Thanks to these actions, you can significantly reduce the risk of complications and enjoy the lasting effect of implant treatment.