Sedation Clinics
If you wake up one morning, look in the mirror, and discover your dental implant is loose…what would you do? Most patients faced with loose dental implants might simply panic and try to fix it themselves! While loose implants are an unsettling sight, it’s important to remain calm and stick to your action plan. If you want a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this crisis, continue reading.
Step 1: Don’t Panic and Call Your Dentist
Panic is a natural response when something frightening happens, but keeping your cool is important to follow your plan. Take a few deep breaths and then call your dentist to schedule an appointment. If you’re experiencing any pain along with the loose implant, let your dentist know. They may be able to schedule you for an emergency appointment the same day!
Step 2: Assess The Situation
Try to figure out which part of your dental implant is loose. There are two common parts that can loosen after placement. It can be a great help to your dentist if you can figure out which part is failing.
Loose Crown: If the visible false tooth is the part that seems to wiggle, it’s a simple problem. More than likely, the cement that keeps the crown in place has weakened. When you see your dentist, they’ll be able to quickly replace the bonding cement and reattach the tooth.
Loose Implant: If the titanium implant itself has come loose, the solution is more complicated. Since this is the part that is supposed to fuse with the jawbone, a loose implant often indicates failure. Your dentist may have to perform more procedures to save your dental implant if this is the case.
Step 3: Avoid Using the Tooth
Your dentist may not be able to see you the same day, so you’ll need to take extra care. Until you go to your dentist appointment, try to stick to soft and nutritious foods. You should also avoid biting contact with the implant as it may cause pain or added stress.
Step 4: Keep it Clean
Be gentle with your oral hygiene while your dental implant is still wiggling around. Brush around the implant, but not on it and be careful with your floss. For better cleanliness, gently swish warm salty water in your mouth for 30 seconds. Keeping up with your regular dental care routine will help your dentist once they see you.
Step 5: See Your Dentist
Once you see your dentist, they’ll assess your mouth and any loose dental implants. Once they find the issue, they’ll recommend treatment options to fix it. It can be difficult to fix a failed dental implant, but it is very possible. The important thing at this point is to stay positive and hopeful.
This short action plan can give you guidance in an otherwise chaotic situation. By following these steps and keeping your oral health in check, your smile will be quickly restored. Dental implants are complex, but with a great dentist in charge of your treatment, you can rest easy knowing you’re in good hands.
About the Practice
Do you need help placing or restoring a dental implant? The expert team at Dental Wellness of Lexington can help. They have the right knowledge and advanced dental technology to perform long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing dental implants and other treatments to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Call (859) 223-4644 to schedule a dental implant consultation or visit the website to browse other services they provide.