Getting implants is becoming a popular solution for individuals who have one or more missing teeth. With implants, the results are much closer to real teeth in terms of how they look and feel. The fact that implants can last for a lifetime is also a major plus.

However, implant surgery isn't always successful. A small number of patients will experience what's known as implant rejection. A failed dental implant must be addressed as quickly as possible by a dentist. How can you know if your dental implants have failed?

Serious Discomfort or Pain

Experiencing a certain amount of pain is not unusual among patients who've had dental implant surgery. The surgery will involve cutting into the gum tissue and some patients may even need a bone graft. All these procedures will result in some residual pain for a certain period after the surgery.

However, if the pain you're experiencing is severe or carries on for weeks or starts long after the surgery, it's quite possible that the implant has failed.

Loose Implants

When your natural teeth feel loose, this usually indicates that they should be removed. Unfortunately, if the same happens with implants, this means that they've failed. The post of the implant is supposed to be integrated into the bone, and this means it shouldn't be loose afterward. If the implant shifts or feels loose, this probably means it has failed.

Inflamed Gums

Another sign of a failed implant is gum tissue that's inflamed. Inflamed gums mean that something is irritating the gums, and it could also indicate an infection. If this is taking place very close to the implant site, it could be because the implant has failed.

Receding Gums

In some cases of implant failure, rather than the gums becoming inflamed, they start to recede and at some point, the implant itself may become visible. If you notice that the gum tissue near the implant site is starting to recede, don't wait until you see the implant, go to your dentist immediately.

Difficulty When Eating or Chewing

One of the main reasons why so many people prefer implants is that they allow you to eat just as you would with healthy regular teeth. If you're not able to chew or eat properly using your implant, it has probably failed. Failed implants can still be salvaged if you react quickly enough. If you wait for too long it will have to be removed.

Visit a dental practice like Brandywine Dental Care if you notice any of these things happening to your implant.