A failed dental implant can be a frustrating and disheartening experience. You may be experiencing pain, discomfort, and even aesthetic concerns. It’s important to understand the reasons why dental implants fail and what steps you can take to rectify the situation. This article will guide you through the process, from identifying the signs of a failed dental implant to seeking compensation for any negligence that may have occurred.
Signs and Symptoms of Dental Implant Failure
Dental implant failure can manifest in various ways. It’s crucial to be vigilant and recognise the signs early on to prevent further complications. Some common indicators of a failed dental implant include:
- Pain or discomfort: Persistent pain around the implant site, especially when chewing or applying pressure, can be a red flag.
- Swelling or inflammation: If the area around the implant is consistently swollen or inflamed, it could indicate an infection or implant failure.
- Loose implant: A dental implant should be firmly anchored in the jawbone. If it feels loose or mobile, it’s a sign that the implant has failed.
- Difficulty chewing: If you experience difficulty chewing or biting down on food, it could be due to a failed implant.
- Gum recession: Receding gums around the implant can expose the implant fixture and lead to further complications.
- Bone loss: In some cases, implant failure can lead to bone loss in the jaw, which can affect the stability of surrounding teeth.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to contact your dentist immediately.
Causes of Dental Implant Failure
Dental implant failure can occur due to a variety of factors, including:
- Peri-implantitis: This is an inflammatory condition that affects the tissues surrounding the implant, leading to bone loss and implant failure.
- Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate oral hygiene can increase the risk of infection and peri-implantitis.
- Smoking: Smoking can hinder the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or osteoporosis, can affect bone health and increase the risk of implant failure.
- Insufficient bone quality or quantity: If there is not enough healthy bone to support the implant, it may fail.
- Incorrect placement of the implant: If the implant is not placed correctly, it may not integrate properly with the bone.
- Low-quality implant materials: Using low-quality implant materials can increase the risk of failure.
What to Do if You Suspect a Failed Dental Implant
If you suspect that your dental implant has failed, the first step is to schedule an appointment with your dentist. They will conduct a thorough examination and take X-rays to assess the condition of the implant and surrounding tissues. Based on their diagnosis, they will recommend the appropriate treatment options.
In some cases, it may be possible to save the implant with procedures such as peri-implantitis treatment or bone grafting. However, if the implant cannot be salvaged, it will need to be removed and replaced.
Seeking Compensation for a Failed Dental Implant
If your dental implant failed due to negligence on the part of your dentist or the implant manufacturer, you may be entitled to compensation. This can cover the cost of remedial treatment, as well as any pain, suffering, and loss of earnings you may have experienced.
To pursue a claim for compensation, you will need to gather evidence to support your case. This may include dental records, X-rays, witness statements, and expert opinions. It’s important to seek legal advice from a specialist dental negligence solicitor who can guide you through the claims process.
Preventing Dental Implant Failure
While dental implants have a high success rate, there are steps you can take to minimise the risk of failure:
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush and floss regularly, and visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
- Quit smoking: Smoking can significantly increase the risk of implant failure.
- Manage underlying medical conditions: If you have a medical condition that could affect your oral health, work with your doctor to manage it effectively.
- Choose an experienced implant dentist: Select a dentist with extensive experience in dental implant placement.
- Follow post-operative instructions: Carefully follow your dentist’s instructions after the implant procedure to promote healing and prevent complications.
Making a Medical Negligence Claim with National Claims
At National Claims, we understand the devastating impact that medical negligence can have on your life and the lives of your loved ones. If you believe you or a family member has suffered harm due to substandard medical care, such as misdiagnosis, surgical errors, medication errors, or delayed treatment, we are here to help you by connecting you with a solicitor from our panel who will be able to assess your case.
Free Consultation
We recognise that every medical negligence case is unique, and we’re here to offer you a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your specific situation. During this consultation, we’ll listen attentively to your experience, and assess the potential strength of your claim. Our team will then connect you with a qualified solicitor from our panel who specialises in medical negligence claims, ensuring that you receive the expert legal representation needed to pursue your case effectively.
*Customers pay up to 25% (incl. VAT) of the amount recovered towards solicitor costs and if you cancel outside your cooling off period, you may be charged a fee.
Contact us today to speak to one of our claims agents who will be able to help you get started on your claim.
Click below to see why we are one of the most trusted claims management companies in the UK.
We’re proud of our excellent customer reviews
We thrive on delivering exceptional service and ensuring our clients’ satisfaction. Don’t just take our word for it. Check out some of our independent reviews to see what our clients have to say.
Excellent
This firm is excellent, they sorted out my car pay out and injury claim very fast, they always communicate with you all the time.
My accident case was dealt with confidence and with great result of the outcome, especially James kept me informed all the time.
I was very impressed at the way my inquiry was treated. I was listened to attentively and everything I needed to know was explained to me.
