Fixing Bad Dental Implants: Your Options for Repair or Replacement

Dental implants are one of the most trusted solutions for replacing missing teeth. But like any medical procedure, they aren’t without risks. When things don’t go as planned, implant complications can arise, causing discomfort, bone loss, or restoration failure. If you’re facing issues with your dental implants, Parkway Dental Care in Kissimmee, FL, is here to help with advanced solutions for implant repair or replacement.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to identify a failing dental implant, what causes implant issues, your treatment options, and what to expect from our experienced team.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

Dental implants consist of three parts:

1. The implant post surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as a root.
2. The abutment connects the post to the crown.
3. The crown/bridge/denture – the visible tooth replacement.

When placed correctly and cared for properly, dental implants can last decades. Parkway Dental Care uses 3D imaging and precise treatment planning to ensure high success rates.

Common Reasons Dental Implants Fail

Implant complications can occur early (within weeks) or late (months or years later). Some of the most common causes include:

• Poor osseointegration – the implant doesn’t fuse with the jawbone properly.
• Peri-implantitis – an infection similar to gum disease, causing bone loss.
• Implant overload – excessive force on the implant, often due to bite imbalance.
• Poor surgical technique – incorrect placement or insufficient bone support.
• Medical conditions or smoking – health factors that affect healing.

Our Parkway Dental team performs thorough diagnostics using advanced tools to determine the root cause before recommending a solution.

Signs Your Dental Implant May Be Failing

Not every discomfort means your implant fails, but persistent symptoms should be evaluated. Warning signs include:

• Pain or tenderness near the implant site
• Loose implant or crown
• Gum inflammation or bleeding
• Receding gums around the implant
• Difficulty chewing or speaking
• Unusual taste or pus discharge

If you notice any of these symptoms, call Parkway Dental Care at (407) 635-1196 for an evaluation.

Your Options for Fixing a Failed Dental Implant

At Parkway Dental Care in Kissimmee, FL, we understand that implant issues, though rare, can be stressful and frustrating. Whether the problem is minor or more serious, our experienced team offers a range of advanced treatment options to help restore your smile and protect your oral health.

Here’s how we customize treatment to restore failed or compromised dental implants based on your specific condition:

1. Implant Restoration Repair

If the titanium implant post is still firmly integrated in your jawbone, but the problem lies with the attached crown, abutment, or screw, we can often correct the issue without surgery. These repairs may include:

• Tightening or replacing the abutment screw if it’s loose or stripped
• Creating a new, custom-made crown to replace a damaged or worn one
• Adjusting the bite alignment to relieve pressure that may be affecting the implant

This is typically a quick, noninvasive, and cost-effective solution that restores function and aesthetics without requiring the implant to be removed.

2. Treating Infection or Peri-Implantitis

If you’re experiencing redness, swelling, bleeding, or discomfort around your implant, you may have peri-implantitis, an infection affecting the surrounding gum and bone. Early treatment is critical to saving the implant. Our treatment approach may involve:

• Ultrasonic cleaning to gently remove plaque and bacteria
• Laser therapy or localized antibiotics to disinfect the tissue
• Bone grafting to restore lost jawbone around the implant, if needed
• Prescription medications and hygiene guidance to support healing

When caught early, peri-implantitis is highly treatable, and we can often preserve the implant without removal.

3. Implant Removal & Replacement

Removal may be necessary if the implant has failed due to bone loss, chronic infection, or mobility. Our process involves:

• Gently extracting the failed implant
• Allowing the area to heal fully, often with bone grafting to rebuild the jaw structure
• Using guided implant surgery to place a new implant with enhanced precision once healing is complete

Thanks to our use of advanced digital technology and planning tools, Parkway Dental Care's implant replacement is efficient and highly predictable.

4. Alternative Solutions if Re-Implantation Isn’t Possible

In some cases, such as when significant bone loss has occurred or a patient’s overall health prevents another implant surgery, we offer customized restorative alternatives, including:

Fixed Dental Bridges Supported by Adjacent Teeth

A fixed dental bridge is a restoration that fills the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It relies on adjacent healthy teeth for support, which are reshaped to hold the bridge securely in place for long-term stability.

Partial or Complete Dentures Designed for Optimal Comfort and Fit

Partial or complete dentures are custom-made prosthetics that replace missing teeth. Designed to fit comfortably in the mouth, they restore function and appearance while ensuring stability, comfort, and ease of use, with minimal irritation to the gums.

Implant-Supported Dentures Using Any Remaining Healthy Implants

Implant-supported dentures are prosthetic devices anchored by dental implants rather than relying solely on natural teeth or gums. They provide a stable, secure fit by using any remaining healthy implants, offering improved comfort and function compared to traditional dentures.

We’ll work closely with you to select the best solution that supports chewing function, speech, and smile confidence.

Side Effects and Risks of Dental Implants

Dental implants boast an impressive success rate of over 95%, but like any medical procedure, they can come with certain risks or side effects. Being informed helps you monitor healing and know when to seek help.

Common Post-Placement Effects (Short-Term):

• Swelling, bruising, or minor bleeding at the surgical site (usually resolves within days)
• Mild discomfort or tightness as the body adjusts to the implant
• Temporary numbness if nearby nerves are irritated during placement

Less Common Risks (Long-Term):

• Infection around the implant due to poor oral hygiene or medical conditions
• Bone loss surrounding the implant (especially if gum disease develops)
• Gum recession, which may expose part of the implant post
• Sinus complications, if implants are placed too close to the sinus cavity in the upper jaw
• Implant loosening or failure, especially in patients who smoke or have uncontrolled diabetes

Conclusion: Regain Your Confidence with Expert Implant Repair

If you’re experiencing discomfort, instability, or other complications with your dental implant, don’t wait. The earlier you address the issue, the better your chances of preserving your smile.

At Parkway Dental Care, we combine experience, technology, and compassion to restore your oral health. Whether you need a minor adjustment or a full implant replacement, our Kissimmee team is ready to help.

Call us at (407) 635-1196 or visit 1064 E Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee, FL 34744 to schedule your implant evaluation today.

FAQs

Can a loose dental implant be saved?

It depends on the cause. If only the crown is loose, it’s a simple fix. But if the implant post is moving, it may need removal and replacement.

How long does it take to replace a failed implant?

The process can take several months, especially if bone grafting is required. Your dentist will create a personalized timeline.

Does insurance cover implant repair or replacement?

Coverage varies. Parkway Dental is in-network with many providers, and we’ll help you verify and maximize your benefits.

Is it painful to fix a dental implant?

Most repairs are minimally invasive and performed under local anesthesia. Discomfort is usually mild and manageable with medication.

What if I’m not a candidate for another implant?

We offer alternative restorations like bridges or implant-supported dentures to restore your smile effectively.

Bibliography & Source

1. Cleveland Clinic – Dental Implants Overview
2. American Academy of Implant Dentistry – FAQs