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Dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution for missing teeth, but they are not always permanent.
In some cases, complications like infection, inflammation and bone loss, or implant fracture may require removal. While the idea of removing an implant may sound concerning, the process is safe, and in many cases, a replacement implant can be placed after proper healing.
In this blog, you will learn why dental implants may need to be removed, how the removal process works, and what to expect during recovery and reimplantation.
AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons offers free dental implant consultations in Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, Tempe and Show Low, AZ.
Table of Contents
- Why Might a Dental Implant Need to Be Removed?
- Understanding Implant Removal Techniques
- Recovery and Future Treatment
- FAQs About Dental Implant Removal
- Schedule a Consultation with AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons
Dental implants are meant to last, but complications can arise. If you are experiencing pain, infection, or implant failure, dental implant removal may be necessary. The process is safe, and with proper care, a new implant can often be placed.
Why Might a Dental Implant Need to Be Removed?
While implants boast a high success rate in implant dentistry, certain conditions may lead to dental implant failure and require their removal.
Common reasons include:
- Infection (Peri-implantitis): If bacteria build up around the implant, it can lead to gum and bone infection, causing the implant to loosen.
- Implant failure: In rare cases, the bone does not fuse properly with the implant, leading to instability.
- Nerve or sinus issues: If an implant is placed too close to a nerve or sinus cavity, it may cause pain, numbness, or sinus complications.
- Fractured implant or prosthesis: Physical trauma or excessive pressure can damage the implant or crown, requiring removal.
- Non-ideal placement: If the implant was not placed in an ideal restorative position or does not align with the bite, removal and reimplantation may be needed.
Understanding Implant Removal Techniques
The implant removal process depends on how well the titanium implant is integrated with the surrounding bone tissue and gum tissue. The two main methods include:
- Simple removal: If the implant is loose or has failed to integrate, the surgeon can remove it with minimal effort, often by simply reverse-torquing
- Surgical removal: If the implant is firmly fused to the bone, specialized tools may be required to remove it while preserving as much healthy bone as possible.
Bone grafting may be necessary after removal to restore lost bone density and prepare the area for a replacement implant in the future.
Recovery and Future Treatment
After an implant is removed, your oral surgeon will determine the best course of action for your oral health. Options may include:
- Bone grafting: If bone loss has occurred, a graft may be placed to support future implant placement.
- Healing period: The area may need several months to heal before considering a new implant.
- Alternative tooth replacement: If a new implant is not an option, solutions like bridges or dentures may be considered.
Learn more about your replacement options in our guide on Missing Teeth? Explore Modern Tooth Replacement Options.
FAQs About Dental Implant Removal
If an implant is removed, the surrounding bone and gum tissue will need time to heal. In some cases, bone grafting may be necessary to restore lost bone before placing a new implant. After a healing period, typically a few months, a replacement implant can often be placed successfully. However, if an implant is removed and not replaced, the bone will eventually shrink and may cause the surrounding teeth to shift.
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during implant removal, as the oral surgeon numbs the area with local anesthesia and you will likely be under dental sedation. Some soreness or swelling may occur afterward, but pain is usually manageable with over-the-counter medications and is similar to the initial tooth removal.
The ease of removal depends on the implant’s stability. If it has not fused well with the bone, removal is relatively simple. If fully integrated, a more involved procedure may be needed.
Schedule a Consultation with AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons
Removing and replacing a dental implant is a delicate procedure that requires precision, expertise, and advanced surgical techniques. Choosing a skilled oral surgeon from the start can make all the difference in ensuring a successful, long-lasting implant.
At AZ Max Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, our team of highly trained specialists is experienced in both implant placement and removal. We use the latest technology to assess each case carefully and create the best treatment plan for long-term success.
Whether you need an implant removed due to complications or are considering implant placement, we are committed to restoring your oral health with expert care.
To book an appointment at our oral surgery office in Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, Tempe or Show Low, call (480) 830-5866 or complete the online inquiry form.
