For the vast majority of patients, their dental implants stand the test of time. They never have to worry that one of their new prosthetic tooth roots might fail. In rare cases, though, problems arise that make removing a failed dental implant in Woodbridge necessary. If you must undergo this procedure, there is no need to worry. It is generally quite safe, and it can set you up for improved oral health in the future. In this blog post, we discuss what you can expect from implant removal surgery.
The Details Vary from Case to Case
Not all implant removal surgeries are the same. There are numerous factors that can affect the complexity and difficulty of the procedure. A few of those factors include:
- The length of time since you received implants. The longer you have had your implants, the stronger their bond with the surrounding bone and the more challenging removal may be.
- Where in the mouth the implant is located. Removing implants from the upper jaw tends to be easier than removing them from the lower jaw.
- Which structures are nearby. Removing implants that are near a nerve or other critical structures requires great care.
- The size of the implants. Long and narrow implants may be more difficult to extract.
The Removal Procedure
The dentist or oral surgeon who performs the removal procedure will use advanced imaging equipment — perhaps a CBCT machine — to understand how firmly the implant is bonded with the surrounding bone and what structures are nearby. With that information, they can plan your surgery.
During the removal procedure, your dental team will do everything they can to minimize the damage to the surrounding tissue. They are likely to perform a bone graft at the same time as the extraction. The graft will replace lost bone and do much to preserve the shape and strength of your jaw. If the removal process causes very little damage to the bone, you might be able to get a new dental implant right away. In many cases, however, it is necessary to wait several months before it is possible to insert a new implant.
After the Surgery
Your dentist will provide detailed instructions to help you recover from the surgery as quickly as possible. They may also offer tips on how to prevent problems similar to the ones that led to the dental implant failure. For example, you might need to make some adjustments to your oral hygiene routine or make efforts to quit smoking. At your follow-up appointments, your dentist will monitor the health of your jawbone and other oral tissues with the goal of helping you to once again enjoy all the benefits of dental implants.
If you are dealing with a failed dental implant, there is no need to worry about the removal procedure. Your dentist will do all they can to help you enjoy efficient, safe, and effective treatment.
Meet the Practice
New Haven Dental Group in Woodbridge features a large team of dentists and specialists. We even have an on-staff oral surgeon who is capable of handling a range of complex procedures, including the removal of failed dental implants. If you have questions about dental implants or anything else related to your oral health, we would be pleased to talk with you. Contact us at 203-408-6713.