Even though implants and other dental restorations are made to last, they can be damaged by trauma, wear, or health issues. If you experience a broken or loose titanium implant post, you should seek emergency dental care. While you wait for your appointment with a dentist for timely treatment, let’s review the methods that dental practitioners recommend for fixing your damaged prosthetic teeth. Please scroll down to find out how to handle dental implant emergencies.
What are the Common Causes of Implant Damage?
Although dental restorations are anchored securely, they are not immune to fracture or wear and tear. According to a study, 3.3% of patients experience implant failure, which can manifest as either broken or incorrectly placed prosthetics. Some reasons behind the failure of artificial tooth roots include:
- Trauma or Injury: A sudden impact to the mouth, from a fall or accident while playing sports, can cause the impairment of prosthetic teeth.
- Teeth Grinding or Clenching: Excessive pressure from bruxism can weaken dental restorations over time and compromise your smile’s stability.
- Gum Disease: Advanced periodontal issues can often compromise the stability of the surrounding bone and lead to implant failure.
- Improper Bite Alignment: Sometimes, uneven pressure on fixed dental prosthetics can cause unexpected fractures or dislodgement of roots.
Urgent Action to Fix a Broken Implant
Fractured artificial tooth roots often require prompt care from an emergency dentist in San Antonio. However, apply these steps to deal with the broken prosthetics until you can book your urgent dental appointment.
- Save Any Loose Pieces: If any part of the titanium post becomes detached, store it in a clean container to bring to your consultation.
- Minimize Use of the Affected Area: Chew on the opposite side of your mouth and avoid hard or sticky foods until you receive immediate care.
- Apply a Cold Compress: If you experience swelling or discomfort, applying ice to the affected area can help reduce dental inflammation.
Treatment Options for a Damaged Restoration
Your dentist may recommend one or more of the following solutions to prevent failure of prosthetic teeth:
Replacing the Entire Restoration: A complete replacement of a malfunctioned replacement tooth may be necessary in case of severe damage.
Repairing the Abutment: The connecting piece in the implant is often the most vulnerable part and may require immediate restoration.
Crown Repair: If only the top portion is impaired, a new custom-made crown is fabricated and placed to protect the restoration.
Bone Grafting: Prior to putting in a new restoration, additional procedures may be required, such as grafting, when there is significant bone loss.
How to Protect Your Dental Restoration?
With these simple tips, maintain your oral health and prevent future complications with permanent tooth replacements.
- Practice good oral hygiene to prevent infections that can weaken the bone surrounding the surgically inserted biocompatible post.
- Wear a mouthguard if you participate in contact sports or suffer from bruxism to ensure optimal protection for your dental prosthetics.
- Visit your dentist for regular check-ups to ensure your replacement teeth remain intact.
If you suspect that your dental restoration has been compromised, don’t wait to seek care. Schedule your next visit to our emergency dental office in San Antonio to repair your fractured dental implants. At Legacy Dental SA, we address and prevent complications with artificial teeth, ensuring your smile stays strong and healthy.
