A dental implant is one of the most reliable tooth replacement solutions available today, but even well-placed implants can occasionally fail. When that happens, patients are often left with questions, discomfort, and uncertainty about what comes next. At Kabani Dental in Marietta, Dr. Shaila Kabani offers comprehensive evaluation and treatment for failed or failing dental implants, including implant removal, bone grafting, and re-implantation when appropriate.
What Causes a Dental Implant to Fail?
Implant failure is not common, but it does occur, and the causes vary depending on when the failure happens and what factors were present. Early failures typically occur within the first few months of placement, before the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone. Late failures develop after the implant has been in place for a longer period and may be related to ongoing health conditions, infection, or mechanical issues.
Common Causes of Early Implant Failure
- Poor osseointegration — the bone does not fuse properly with the implant surface
- Infection at the implant site, sometimes called peri-implantitis
- Inadequate bone volume or density at the time of placement
- Smoking or systemic conditions like uncontrolled diabetes that impair healing
- Bite-related stress from grinding or clenching (bruxism)
Common Causes of Late Implant Failure
- Peri-implantitis, a progressive bacterial infection affecting the tissues around the implant
- Bone loss around the implant over time
- Mechanical fracture of the implant or the abutment
- Changes in the patient’s overall health affecting bone integrity
Signs That an Implant May Be Failing
Implant failure is not always immediately obvious. Some patients experience significant discomfort, while others notice subtle changes that develop gradually. The warning signs include:
- Pain or discomfort at the implant site that persists after the initial healing period
- Mobility or movement of the implant when you bite or press on it
- Swelling, redness, or bleeding around the implant
- Difficulty chewing or a change in how your bite feels
- Visible recession of the gum tissue around the implant
- A sensation that the implant feels loose or shifts when you chew
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek evaluation as soon as possible. Early intervention often preserves more bone and increases the likelihood of successful re-treatment.
How Dr. Kabani Evaluates and Treats a Failed Implant
When a patient comes to us with implant concerns, our first step is a thorough diagnostic evaluation. We use 3D CBCT imaging to get a complete view of the bone surrounding the implant, the depth of any infection, and the overall structure of the jaw. This level of detail is critical for planning the right course of action.
Implant Removal
When an implant cannot be saved, it must be removed carefully to preserve as much surrounding bone as possible. Dr. Kabani performs implant removal with precision, using techniques designed to minimize trauma to the site and prepare it for future restoration.
Bone Grafting
Implant failure often involves some degree of bone loss at the site. Before a new implant can be placed, the bone must be rebuilt. Our bone grafting procedures use biocompatible graft materials to restore the volume and density needed for a stable implant foundation. Healing from a bone graft typically takes several months before re-implantation can proceed.
Re-Implantation
Once the site has fully healed, many patients are candidates for a new implant. Dr. Kabani uses computer-guided surgical planning for implant placement, which improves precision and reduces the margin for error compared to freehand techniques. She holds implant certifications through Nobel, Zimmer, and Straumann, and brings this breadth of training to every case.
Why Choose Kabani Dental for Failed Implant Treatment
Not every dental practice has the diagnostic technology, surgical training, and restorative depth to manage failed implant cases from start to finish. At Kabani Dental, we handle the full continuum of care, from the initial evaluation and implant removal through bone grafting, re-implantation, and final crown placement. Patients do not need to be referred to multiple specialists or coordinate between offices. We manage the process in one place, with consistent communication and a clear plan at every stage.
Dr. Kabani’s advanced training through the Pankey Institute, combined with her certifications in implant placement and 3D imaging, positions her to take on complex cases that require more than a routine approach. If you had an implant placed elsewhere and are now experiencing problems, you are welcome to come in for an evaluation. We will give you a straightforward assessment of what is happening and what your options are.
Schedule a Failed Implant Evaluation in Marietta
If you suspect your implant may be failing, do not wait to seek care. Earlier intervention typically means better outcomes and more treatment options. Contact Kabani Dental to schedule your evaluation with Dr. Kabani in Marietta.