How to remedy a loose dental implant

Dec 31, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
In general, dental implants refer to implant-supported dentures. Loosening of implant-supported dentures can be addressed by re-cementing the crown, replacing screws or abutments, bone expansion treatment, replacing the implant, medication therapy, and other methods. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. If the artificial crown of an implant-supported denture becomes loose and the crown itself is undamaged, it can be repaired by re-cementing. Remove the loose crown first.

Generally, loose dental implants can be remedied by re-cementing the crown, replacing the screw or abutment, bone expansion treatment, replacing the implant, or medication. If discomfort occurs, timely medical attention is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Re-cementing the Crown

If the artificial crown of the dental implant becomes loose and the crown itself is undamaged, it can be repaired by re-cementation. The loose crown will be removed, cleaned, and then re-cemented following standard procedures. Chewing hard foods should be avoided for a period after the re-cementation to prevent affecting the repair outcome.

2. Replace the Screw or Abutment

If the dental implant becomes loose due to a loose screw or damaged abutment, the issue can be fixed by replacing the screw or abutment. The dentist will remove the crown or abutment, inspect whether the screw is loose or the abutment is damaged, and then replace the affected component accordingly.

3. Bone Expansion Treatment

If the looseness of the implant is caused by insufficient bone volume around the implant, bone expansion treatment can be used to increase the bone volume. Bone grafting materials such as bone powder are used to augment the bone, increasing both bone volume and density, thereby enhancing the integration between the implant and the bone.

4. Replace the Implant

If the implant is severely loose and cannot be repaired, or if there is an inherent quality issue with the implant, it will need to be replaced. The original implant must be removed, and a new implant can be placed after the alveolar bone has healed.

5. Medication

If the looseness of the dental implant is caused by oral inflammation such as periodontitis, medication can be used to eliminate the inflammation and alleviate the looseness. Anti-inflammatory medications such as minocycline hydrochloride capsules, amoxicillin capsules, or Niuhuang Jiedu tablets may be used as directed by a physician.

In daily life, avoid eating overly hard foods to prevent damage to the dental implant.

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