In the dental implant world, we hear terms like “fixed” and “permanent,” but do those mean what we think they mean? Can dental implants be removed? Yes.
For it to be necessary for a dental specialist to remove an implant, it has to have failed. The possible reasons for the failure are many, but there are two main categories: early and late failures.
What is an early implant fail?
An early failure happens soon after (within the first few months) the implant placement. Whether the failure is from infection, an unsuccessful osseointegration period, or too much movement happening during the healing process, a specialist can remove the implant because it has not fused to the jawbone.
What is a late implant fail?
A late failure can happen anytime after a year from the placement. It could have failed due to infection (like peri-implantitis), too much force, or the implant just becoming loose, these are also easy to remove.
If a dental implant does need to be removed, there are two situations where the removal procedure is necessary:
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Non-osseointegrated implant
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Osseointegrated implant
You would probably go under anesthesia and the specialist would use their tools to remove the crown, take out the abutment, and finally remove the implant.
You will most likely have pain after getting the implant removed, but it shouldn’t be too intense or long-lasting. The level and duration of pain you can expect is similar to when you got the implant placed — pain that responds to medication and lasts a few days to a week or so.
Contact Dr. Jay Elbrecht if you have any questions concerning dental implants. Request an appointment online or call (765) 622-7000.
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