Do you ever worry if a crown or dental implant comes loose or even falls out? It can be a shock and even a little frightening. The good news is that for the majority of patients, your implant restoration near you can be repaired, but not necessarily by cementing it back. Read on, and you’ll know why this happens, how it’s resolved, and what to do next.
Why Do Dental Implants Come Loose?
Dental implants are known for being strong and long-lasting. However, complications can still happen. When an implant restoration becomes loose, it may not always be the implant itself. Most often, the crown or abutment—the part that connects the visible tooth to the implant—may become detached.
Common reasons include
- Wear and tear on the cement or screw holding the crown.
- Biting down too hard or grinding your teeth at night
- An issue with the fit of the crown
- Bone or gum issues around the implant
Each case is different, and only a professional can tell if the implant can be repaired or if further treatment is needed.
When Cementing Might Be An Option
In some cases, a loose crown can be re-cemented if the implant and surrounding bone are still in good shape. However, not every restoration is cemented. Some are screw-retained, which requires a different fix.
Here are situations where cementing the crown back in might work:
- The crown itself is intact and undamaged
- The implant is still firmly anchored in the bone.
- There is no infection or gum recession around the area.
- The internal part of the crown still fits securely.
If these conditions are met, a dentist in SW Calgary may decide that cementing is the right solution.
Cases Where Cementing Is Not Enough
There are also times when simply cementing the crown back in won’t solve the problem. In these situations, the dentist will evaluate the entire implant system to decide the best option.
Scenarios that may require more than cementing include:
- Damage to the abutment or crown
- Loose or fractured implant screws
- Bone loss around the implant
- Infection or inflammation in the gums
If the problem is deeper, it might require replacing certain parts or even the entire implant, depending on the condition.
How A Dental Exam Helps Identify The Issue
When an implant crown comes loose, your first step should be scheduling a dental exam. A dentist will take digital X-rays and do a thorough inspection of the area. This allows them to check:
- Whether the implant post is still stable
- The health of the surrounding gum and bone
- Any damage to the crown or abutment
- Whether cement or screw retention was originally used
This information helps the dentist decide if a repair is possible or if a replacement is necessary.
What To Expect During A Repair Visit
Here, we discuss what typically happens during an implant restoration appointment:
Step-by-step process:
- Exam and Imaging – The dentist will check the area and take X-rays
- Cleaning and Preparation – The implant and crown will be cleaned thoroughly
- Crown Evaluation – The crown is examined for cracks or wear
- Decision – The dentist decides whether cementing or replacing is the better solution
- Cementing or Adjustment – If all is well, the crown is carefully cemented back on
This process is often painless and usually does not require numbing unless there’s irritation in the gums.
How To Prevent A Loose Implant In The Future
Preventing issues with implants begins with proper care and awareness. Many implant complications are avoidable through simple habits and regular checkups.
Prevention tips:
- Avoid chewing very hard foods such as ice or hard candies
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth.
- Maintain regular dental cleanings and checkups.
- Brush and floss around your implants daily.
- Avoid using your teeth to open packages or bottles.
If you follow these tips, you can help your implant last for many years without issues.
What Makes Implant Repairs Successful?
Several factors determine whether an implant repair will last. If the implant and bone are stable, re-cementing the crown usually works very well. When the abutment that connects the crown becomes loose, tightening or replacing it often solves the problem with good long-term results. However, if bone loss is present, treatment may be more complex and can include a bone graft to rebuild support.
The success depends on how much bone is missing and the health of nearby tissues. If the crown itself is damaged, a new custom crown can often be made to fit securely on the existing implant. In cases where the implant is no longer stable or has failed, removing and replacing it may be necessary. No matter the situation, success depends on early action, accurate diagnosis, and careful follow-up with your dentist to maintain implant health.
Take Action Now To Protect Your Implant Health
Dental implants are a smart, lasting solution when cared for properly. If your crown feels loose or has fallen off, don’t try to fix it on your own. Only a trained professional, such as a dentist near you, can assess the condition and decide whether it can be cemented back in or if another treatment is needed.
At Glamorgan Dental, our experienced team is here to help with all your implant care needs. Whether you need an exam, a repair, or a full restoration, we’re ready to provide the right solution. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and keep your smile healthy for the long run.
