Fusing together with the jawbone, dental implants offer a reliable replacement for missing teeth. But while these prosthetics have a high success rate, there are situations where they may loosen, become damaged, or fall out entirely. If you’re experiencing any of these situations, the first step to take is to call your dentist and schedule an appointment for repairs. In the meantime, however, here are a few guidelines to help you preserve your implant and protect your oral health.

How to Address Dental Implant Problems

Damaged Implant

The titanium post that holds the implant in place should be strong enough to provide a permanent replacement for your missing tooth. However, if you experience trauma or subject the implant to heavy amounts of pressure, the post—and the crown covering it—can become damaged.

In these instances, avoid biting or chewing with the affected area to prevent further damage. If the crown has chipped or becomes too loose, see if you can gently remove it to avoid accidentally swallowing the prosthetic. To minimize discomfort, take an over-the-counter pain reliever.

Loose Crown

If the top of the implant’s titanium post—known as the healing abutment—is secure but the crown is loose, see if you can remove the prosthetic. If you can, you may be able to temporarily hold it in place by using over-the-counter dental cement or toothpaste. This may be the best option if you are at work and need to keep your smile intact until you can see a dentist. If you can’t secure the crown, place it in a sealed container, as your dentist may be able to reattach it.

Separated Implant

If the healing abutment falls out, save all pieces of the implant for your dentist. While you will have an open space in your smile, you do not necessarily have to worry about the opening in the gums becoming infected. Until you can make it to your dentist, rinse the area with mouthwash to keep it clean and to avoid placing pressure on the site.

If you wait too long to seek professional help, it is possible that the gum tissue will grow over the opening. However, your dentist can re-enter this area through a minor procedure and reattach the abutment and crown.

If you are experiencing any issues with a dental implant—or are curious about getting the treatment—turn to the professionals at Pure Dental Care NY. Located in Midtown Manhattan, this clinic has the advanced tools necessary to provide state-of-the-art tooth implants, as well as many other cosmetic dentistry solutions. To learn more about the dentist and their approach to care, visit this practice online. For appointments, call (212) 256-1292.