A patient in my Burbank office asked me about the long-term with implants. Dental implant complications can occur. Most focus on the surgery, but what I am talking about is what happens later down the road. Later, meaning after the crown, bridge or full implant restoration has been attached to the implants.
This video reviews two problems that can occur with a dental implant months or years down the road.
Keep in mind that “regular dentistry” has complications too. Fillings break, crowns wear out, root canals become lose their seal, etc…unfortunately nothing is forever. But with good upkeep and regular visits, potential problems can be taken care of more easily than waiting. The skill and training of your dentist plays a huge role. Dont choose your dentist by price alone.
Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry
Burbank, California
Hi Dr.Amin. I had a dentist implement 5 upper zirconia implants from broken cracked teeth from accidents I was in. And 7 lower zirconia implants implanted for the same reason. After 3-4 months of healing bone augmatation, the dentist screwed in the zirconia abutments and made a 2 piece bridge for both top and bottom ,temporary material bridge, to establish a proper bite and jaw alignment. Unfortunately after several bridges cracking in half and breaking, the abutment screws broke inside the implant and all the 5 implants had to be removed, televising a considerable amount of pain and throbbing I was having ever since they were put in. The lower implants were placed right on top of my jaw avelar nerve and other jawbone nerves causing constant pain and throbbing 24/7. I consumed 5 other oral suergeons/MD’s, and they all told me the implants were placed wrong and into my main jaw nerve and nerves causing the intense pain. I’ve got 5out of 7 lower implants left in my lower gums 2 with broken abutment screws in them, and 3 left with the abutments sticking out of my lower gums still, with extreme numbness and pain in my lower dum and lip area after the surgery. Other surgeons said they need to be removed in hopes there is no long term nerve damage. But ever since I’ve had this surgery for the implants, ive been having extreme neck pain , facial pain, weakness in my legs and cervical and low back pain with equilibrium and balance problems daily from not having but 3 teeth left in my upper molar area. What could be causing this constant pain in my neck and face and gums? Could a bad bite and collapsed bite be causing all of this? My medical doctors are puzzled since IV been in really good health and always have eaten really healthy and don’t smoke , drink alcohol , no medications, or drugs, jut my daily supplements and vitamins and protein shakes. It also has caused digestive problems from not having any teeth to eat with..Are new implants a suggestion for this ongoing problem I’ve Been living with almost 2 years now?
Sorry you are having all these issues. I am not a fan of zirconia implants at all. I love zirconia for abutments and crowns but not for the implants themselves. The fact that you are 2 years out of surgery it is unlikely that any of your feeling in your face will return. It is also unlikely that any of your other medical conditions are related. I am not trying to sound unsympathetic it just does not work that way. You can certainly have the remaining pieces of the implants dug out and start all over again. I would strongly suggest titanium implants as they can be reversed out and removed much easier than zirconia implants. One of the biggest problems with zirconia implants is that removing them is very difficult and very destructive to the jaw.
Hi I have a 2 year old implant that i waited to have crown put on for my own reasons…not medical. Well we put abutment screw on and then the crown and three weeks later it still feels like something is pinching my gum…its not the crown because i can floss under and around the crown i think it is the abuntment…is this possible? And if so how does one fix?
Xray is needed to see if the implant is pinching the bone.
The abutment contour is really important 🙌
https://burbankdentalimplants.com/abutment-shape-of-dental-implants/
I forgot to write that mucus threads also come from the implant. not inflammation. but white odorless mucus threads. And when I use floss up there, the floss smells rotten. But the dentist says there is no inflammation when he presses it or om the scan. The pain is always there, but some days it’s not so bad and other days is so bad
Something is definitely wrong. You should have a 3-D scan done and be seen by a dental implant specialist. You likely have mucositis and some bone loss around the implant. Sorry 😐
Hey again. I have had a 3D scan and seen my dental specialist. I have only 0,6 mm bone loss after 9 years. They could not see anything on the scan. What is mucositis :/
Peri-implant mucositis is a reversible, plaque-induced inflammatory lesion of the soft tissues surrounding a dental implant, characterized by bleeding on probing, redness, and swelling without supporting bone loss
Hey. I got an implant in my for tooth, 9 years ago. A year ago It started to hurt over the implant,and the tooth next to it. The pain also spreads to the entire left side. My implant dentist says it looks nice and I’ve been scanned. He says there is very little bone loss, but he does not think the pain comes from my implant. I have been to 3 other dentists who do not know what is wrong. I got caries made in tooth number 7, 6 and 5 and he said it could be the pain came from them. I also have a little arthritis in the left jaw. I have have so much pain all the time over the implant and at the tooth next to it and the entire left side. Hope you can give me some advice..
Tough situation 😔 have you seen an endodontist ?
Hi. I’M 61 years old and recently had 3 teeth removed. I considered implants but decided against them for two reasons. The cost, and because I have Multiple Myeloma. I was told my body may reject them due to the MM, is this true?
TIA,
Maxine Diaz
Multiple myeloma is certainly something not to take risk. Many times you have been treated with intravenous bisphosphonates which can cause really severe complications. I would advise against dental implants. So sorry
Multiple myeloma is a cancer that forms in a type of white blood cell called a plasma cell. Plasma cells help you fight infections by making antibodies that recognize and attack germs. Multiple myeloma causes cancer cells to accumulate in the bone marrow, where they crowd out healthy blood cells.
I have an implant for 8 months #7 front tooth. It has always given me intermittent pain…the kind that feels like it needs a root canal. Three different DDS have looked at it and say “it looks great! no problem It can’t be the implant it must be the adjacent teeth but they have been tested and they are both fine (endodontist). Is it possible to have sensitivity from an implant occasionally. I do not have a crown on it yet and I do not eat on that side of my mouth. Feel like I just want to have it taken out. Very frustrated..and no one helps me…thank you
I got all on 4 dental implants top & bottom in sept 2017. I went to a new dentist found out 2 screws were the wrong screws. I had them in for 11 mo. Could this have caused problems?? I have some pain (not bad) in 3 implants on the bottom and 1 implant on top. Bottom ones ach like a tooth ach, the top one twitches & throbs. I got them from Clear Choice they put teeth over the implants the same day. Should I be concerned? Implants started to bother me about 2 weeks ago.
You need to be seen ASAP to correct the problem. Pain in an implant is not normal and typically indicates a major problem 😱
I had a dental implant 1,5 ago. My problems began when I got a crown (about 10 month ago). It was screwed, not cemented. It always felt sensitive when I flossed it. I went back to the dentist numerous times, but he didn’t see anything wrong with the crown or implant. Eventually, I pressed under that spot what was always sensitive when I flossed it, and a lot of pus came out. It was coming out each time I pressed on it. I went to a different dentist, he said it was an infection and prescribed me antibiotics for one week and advised to remove the crown. I got the crown removed, and it seems healed. My regular dentist who placed the implant said I had an allergy to abutment. I seeked for the 3rd option: that dentist told me the implant was a bit in the sinus, so it could cause that. Today, I had a consultation with a periodontist: he thinks the crown didn’t fit well, so it irritated the gum. Implant itself doesn’t move and seems normal. I am so lost and confused now.
Hello Doctor,
Thank you for your page.
I have got my two front teeth implants in 2014 by a periodontist, and towards the end of 2014 I got my abutment screws and crowns cemented with another dentist. After two years the left crown became loose and my dentist said he cannot be sure if it’s the screw or the glue being loose and so to avoid damaging the crowns he suggested that I wait for the crown to come off by itself without any time frame. A year past by and the right crown became loose too. I went to him and insisted that I believed it is the abutment screw that has come loose for both the crowns. The dentist made the drills and upon checking confirmed that the screws are loose and are not capabale of being retightened. So he changed everything from putting new abutment and screws and crowns. After a week My left crown feels strange from inside, as if there is a pressure and sometimes a pulsing sensation but my gums are healthy with no pain. It’s like I’m aware of the left crown but the right crown feels alright. Could you kindly please share your thoughts with me, why do you think I feel this way?
Another point, from the beginning I have asked him how is he going to fix them without having any cost for me as it is not fault they have become loose in just two years. He didn’t reply to my email and proceeded with treatment and at the completion of work the doctor told me he is not going to charge me for his time but I have to pay for the laboratory fees for the crowns and custom abutment for $6000. Is this fair ? Is it not his responsibility? I have initially paid him around $10,000 for these two crowns in the first place. Could you kindly please share your thoughts with me.
Thank you very much.
Kind regards.
I have had 2 implants/reconstructed teeth on lower molars each side, and have the metal phase completed on one side on uppers for 1 molar (the other side has to be redone because the metal fell out). My teeth underwent orthodontics when I was 16 to straighten #8, jutting forward from my first six years of thumb sucking. It is now seriously jutted forward again as a result of too close placement of the metal implant for the first upper molars. Implant dentist said the metal is best close to adjacent teeth so it won’t catch food. It surprises me that some consideration of a patient’s previous orthodontic experience is not a consideration in the placement of the metal implants. Any comments or advice?
Do you know of anywhere in Thailand that provides Zirconia implants?
I’ve been searching google for dental surgeries in Bangkok but having no luck.
Many thanks in advance,
Jessica
I had a dental implant placed on Jan 18, 2018 by Dr. Joseph Paskill in NJ and I’ve been miserable ever since. The general anesthesia exacerbated my anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD which came as a result of a severe TBI when I was 17(I’m 33 now). I am feeling more and more depressed since the titanium placement. My psychologist and my Primary Care Physican have both said I’ve learned enough coping techniques from the years of intense therapy after my brain injury that in time it will get easier…but I’m rarely depressed. Is depression a common reaction to life with an implant before the final tooth is placed? I don’t know how much more of this I can take. I just don’t know what to eat anymore and can’t remember what questions to ask my oral surgeon even when I’ve written them down. I don’t want to be sad about this anymore. Based on what I was told by the surgeon and what I’ve researched is that the implant was a better option than having a dentures placed at #30. I’ve had issues swallowing, I constantly feel like I’ve sometbing caught in my throat…and the ENT I just saw found a lesion in my right nostril and says it could be post-nasal drip. I never had those issues until after I had the implant placement procedure.
my milk teeth was broken in 14 year and when x-ray was taken and my teeth bone was missing can anew teeth be placed.
I just want mini upper implant dentures and see how much does it cost. I might have a little bone. But I’m not sure. But if I did where they’ll be a problem
Routine check-up, thaught it was a popcorn shell around tooth. Notice it was cement around implant tooth. After exrays and showing bone loss, is now saying I need surgery by cutting into the gum to remove cement around tooth. Does this sound right?
Hi Dr!
I have a 1 year old dental implant that gives me no pain but i have always known it was there… it never felt 100% normal. Just this week, as i was brushing my teeth, i noticed the gums around the implant is painful and the tooth (crown or maybe the implant itself) is loose – it rocks slightly. Could this be an easy fix or more likely a sign of implant failure??
It is possible it could be a loose abutments screw or possibly the entire implant is loose. You need to be looked at ASAP.
I dont have enough bons still I can have implant how much ot cost
There are options for severe bone loss in the upper jaw such as zygomatic implants which work very well. There are options and the lower jaw for severe bone loss such as nerve repositioning. These are things that I do on a routine basis that are available for the most severe of cases. I do not know enough of your information to tell you exactly what to do but just seen these 2 types of procedures should give you hope that pretty much anything can be done! Good luck!
Hi there,
I have two dental implants that are about 16 years old, and about 3 years ago I had the abutments and crowns replaced as my other teeth had shifted back and the original implant crowns stuck away from my natural teeth. At the time I had gotten x-rays and the prosthedontist concluded I still had good bone density and only minimal bone loss from a 16 year old implant. In 2015 I got a retainer in order to keep everything in place but have recently noticed a mild ache when I press my face or the gums above the implant. I don’t know whether to keep wearing the retainer or not. I have an appointment with a periodontist in about a month (the soonest I could get an appointment) as I’ve also noticed the gums around one of the implants to be red and thin-looking. Not sure if this is due to an ill-fitting crown or the stress of wearing a retainer or what. Any suggestions or advise would be greatly appreciated!
Hi doctor. Ive had 3 implants and 1 bridge a few years ago. Anyways, i havent had any problems since i had it done. Now i woke up with some sensitivity in the implant itself. Gums dont hurt, but if i touch the implant itself its sensitive. I cant say it hurts, cause its not really pain. Its more like eating cold ice cream on a sensitive real tooth. Im worried, i paid so much money and i dont want this to be for nothing. I read some bad stuff about my implant dentist so now im super worried. It helped my self esteem so much to fix my teeth. They became so weak during my 5 pregnancies. So it was nice that we were able to save and fix them. I cant afford to fix them now so im freaking out. I had a cleaning last week and was told they looked great. So now i dont know:(
Hmm… something might be up. Look up peri-implantitis on my site.
Have a scan done and make sure bone is good all the way around and that there is no cement left behind. Search the word cement in my search bar.
What happened to you? I’m having the same issue.
6 -8 months ago I was given a front tooth implant and crown. Since then I have a sensation of dull throbbing and pressure on that tooth. There is some inflammation on the sides of my 2 front teeth. My dentist removed the crown and I now have a temporary tooth while the dentist and eperiodontist figure out the problem. I was told the tooth next to it has a short root and bone loss. After teading some forums, I am now wondering if this long implant has perforated the sinus cavity. Any ideas? Thank you in advance for your time?
A sinus perforation typically causes no pain or problems. The sinuses are located on the upper back teeth. Sounds like you have a front tooth.
Hi
I had an immediate loading of implant on 4th jan this year at the place of tooth extracted 8 years back.
Surgery went well and i was perfectly fine till two weeks post implant placement.
However ten days back,i started having pain in the adjacent tooth to implant…doctor gave me tab. Enzamac and told that may be there is some swelling inside because my adjacent teeth was free from any movement from one side because of no tooth on one side.
I felt half better but pain is still there when touched.
Last week i found discomfort in the inside of lip at the extreme top pf gums just above the implant… I touched i noticed there is some swelling which causes bearable pain on touching.my dentiat took xray and said evrything seems to be fine.however he then gave me antibiotic again for next 5 days.
I am not sure whether thr is any improvement.
Moreover sometimes i feel slight pulsating sentation under the implant….
I am really worried…what is the reason behind this swelling??? Why thr is pain in adjacent teeth?? And the sentaion of pulse is normal???
3 year old implant, started having some pain 3 weeks ago. Around the gum has always looked blue or maybe I should say bruised.dhould I go see surgeon about this?
Yes!!! You could have bone loss happening around the dental implant without you even knowing. Please look at some posts named peri-implantitis
My dentist had used Implant adhesive, not cement, and let me believe that the crown would hold. In no time the fused double crown popped out. I checked the internet and read that only to use Implant adhesive. Could not understand, maybe it meant temporally for it to be set in before the permanent cement be used. I went back to my dentist, permanent cement was used this time and all is well.
Actually….Many of the cements that are marketed specifically for implants are actually not that good.
It has more to do with the technique of cementation such as sandblasting the internal of the crown and the abutment.
The abutment must also be 3D designed or drilled in such a way that holds the crown without cement.
Permanent or temporary cement is fine. It is more the technique and making sure that only a very tiny amount is used and it is not allowed to overflow into the gums.
I had a consultation for 4 on 1 dental implant, removing all of my top teeth and giving me an entire new bank of teeth on top. From the model they showed me there is 4 implants holding the entire upper bridge. Is this procedure better than replacing 6 teeth (3 on each side of my mouth — 2 bridges that have failed and cannot be replaced) with individual implants?
often this decision is made based on the density of your bone, how much bone you have and your bite structure. The upper jaw carries much more risk than the lower jaw for doing this. In general waiting longer is always beneficial while speeding things up adds a degree of risk especially for the upper jaw. Read this post about the process of replacing all teeth with a much better process been only using 4 implants for an entire upper jaw.
When having an one implant for one front tooth and the tooth next to it … How does the bridge hold on to the implant if permanent cement is not used?
I don’t understand your question… I am sorry
Thank you Dr Amin for your video on dental implants.
I had a dental implant about 2yrs ago from a dentist in Oklahoms. We had a long talk about my gum disease , and problems grinding at night.
I asked about what problems I might have in getting the implant. All he told me was there is always a small chance of my body rejecting it.
But everything seemed fine for the first couple of years. Then three days ago the area around my implant was very sore when it tried to eat anything. But after a couple of days the pain was gone for about 24 hours. I ate, and no pain. About two hours after that I noticed my implant was wiggling just a bit, within the next twelve hours it was floating. Since it was evening and the dentist was closed, I used an OTC thin flexible mouthguard for the night which helped with the pain of the implant moving and causing me pain.
The next morning I pulled on the implant because it just seemed like it was ready to fall out. The implant and screw came out all in one piece. I have no pain now; just a hole where the implant use to be.
Feeling uncomfortable about going back to the same dentist and wanting to look for a new one, I was wondering if there was anything I should be worried about? Is this an emergency situation or can I take a day or two to find a new dentist?
Again, I thank you for your video. I would of been at a complete loss without it.
Sincerely,
Candy Stewart
[email protected]
While, what us story, this does not happen overnight. You likely have had aggressive bone loss we called peri-implantitis that was perhaps unbeknownst to you and your dentist. I would suggest you see a very skilled and experienced provider when you replace the implant a second time. The kind of story you described does not happen often.
Best of luck
Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
I had six implants in 2007 due to bone loss and damage since I was a child. I have had no quality of life since the placements. I have excellent dental care professions; but the do not to remove the implants. Chronic fatigue, daily headaches, resulting depression, ear aches, tinnitisis, and occasional news casts are heard. I know the risks, but having no life seems to weigh in favor of removing them. The issue- necrosis because I had two Reclast infusions; 2005 and 2009. We have tried everything. Cranial sacral work, medication given for fibromyalgia . Please advise. I cannot cope.
Your symptoms are not related to the dental implants but they can be removed if you feel this is right for you. Your reclast injections are out far enough by a few years to likely be safe but talk to your surgeon about some blood tests to be done before surgery. Reclast is an intravenous bone medication that can have negative effects.
Hello there,
My mother also suffers from a low immune system, following dental treatments gone wrong, which has resulted in her fibromyalgia and also tinnitus in her ears.
I’ve also read a heck of a lot about immune system shutdowns following dental treatment/dental problems.
What do you think about this?
Hi Jessica…if mom was prone to complications I certainly would not travel out of the country for treatment. What if she needs to be treated for complications?
About zirconia implants….here are my thoughts
I have had constant pain for several months in the area of one of my dental implants that has been in place for two years. I have seen specialty dentists and doctors trying to figure out what is going on with no answers to date. They said removing a dental implant should be the last resort but all of the treatments have not provided any relief. Treatments have included muscle relaxants, Novocain injections, Botox injections, physical therapy. I live in San Diego, CA so if you know of anyone in this area that I could see or if you have any other ideas for me please let me know. This is driving me crazy!
I would make a trip up to UCLA or USC dental school. They have specialized teams of people and technology that may be able to work out unusual issues like you’re having. This is not the norm!!
I am having dental pain I had implants placed in 1993 at the Davis Mountian Air Force Base in Tuscon Arizona. I am now living in middle TN about equal distant to Knoxville, Nashville or Chatanooga do you have any recommendations on whom I should see ? I have Delta Dental insurance if that helps.
AAID.com or ABOI.org
I am having pain I had the implants placed in 1993 by a surgeon at Davis mountain Airforce Base I now live in Middle TN near Cookeville TN I have Delta Dental Insurance do you have any recommendations for whom I may see Nashville, Knoxville or Chatanooga are all about the same distance for us. Don Baird
No sorry —check out AAID.com
My front tooth is a dental implant and I’ve had it for about 5 years now. I just noticed some throbbing pain the other morning and saw that the back of the implant is solid black….now I’m freaking out. What is it?!
Just had an implant crown put in today. Looks huge. Gap shows in top and it’s fitting too tight in between the other two teeth to the point that it hurts when I eat. Can it me files in between so it’s not as tight?
I live in Miami, Florida and possibly considering an implant where molar #18 was situated. Please let me know of a very well known and reputable dental immplat specialist in my area.
Thank you.
Hi, I had a new bridge put in 1 1/2 years ago (this was replacing a bridge that was there for about 8 years…it was replaced because xray showed a tooth under the first bridge was decaying thus the second bridge). . Now I have an infection under one of the caps in this new bridge and the dentist is saying that it looks like there is external resorption happening and is recommending taking out the bridge and putting in implants. I don’t understand what causes external resorption. Is it possible to get this external resorption if there was a root canal done previously on this tooth in question? Appreciate any help understanding this. thank you
Barbara
Hello Doctor,
I had a full mouth restoration about 3.5 years ago. #19-22 bridge is now movable with the push of my tongue,( outward only). I am not sure how many implants are holding it in. If this is from bone loss around the implants, how complicated of a procedure would this be to repair? Thank you.
Hopefully the looseness is not being caused by bone loss which is worst case scenario. If that is the case the implants will need to be removed asap.
Let’s be optimistic and assume you have a loose abutment that may be able to be retightened. The bridge may not be easily removed so your dentist may need to cut through it to access the abutments. This is a very difficult procedure sometimes.
How to Fix a Broken Dental Implant Screw – A Case Report-Burbank Dentist Ramsey Amin, DDS Explains
Good luck!!
Keep me posted.
Ramsey Amin DDS
Thank you so much! You have eased my stress. Going to find an implant dentist in my area :). I would go to your office but I live states away. Thanks again and Happy New Year!
I had one implant put in my mouth many years ago. I was 18 at the time. I had a tooth that had calcified in the gum so my oral surgeon removed it and later replaced it with this implant. He put some kind of substance around the lower front part of gum to build a foundation for the implant. I want to say it was coral but it was so long ago. I can’t find anything online stating that coral was used by oral surgeons for this procedure but this is what I remember. He told me that it would leak out a few white specks for a few days and then stop and that this was completely normal. It did just that and stopped leaking after a few days. Everything has been going well over the years with this implant but recently I noticed at the bottom of the gum line directly in front of the implant there is a slight cave-in. I also see little white specks that resemble the coral he packed in there and can feel them with my finger. I am really concerned. Does this mean the bone is regressing? I am meticulous about my oral hygiene and have never had a cavity. I am not sure who I should go see: an oral surgeon or a dentist. Thank you for your helpful site!
Hi Shell,
I would see any dentist with a strong background in dental implants. Some bone graft materials that are coral based never ever turn into bone.
That being said, a piece that did not integrate could surface years later. It is not likely a problem. As long is the probing depth is good and no threads are felt, you will likely be fine for a long time!
Good luck,
Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
I had right lower implant in June 2011, no problems with site. Since than I have had several issues regarding my right ear hearing , fullness in right ear, looks like a cyst on right tonsil for at least 1 year, occ. lymph node swelling to right under jaw, no fever, no fatigue and tonsils are not swollen although I have had occasional right ear discomfort that is relieved with ibuprofen
Dr. Amin,
Great video. Thank you for providing education.
My sister is 43 years old. Growing up in India, she always had number of issues with her teeth. She just lost one of her front teeth but her dentist is saying that she has severe gum and bone loss. One of the ortho specialists said that she cannot get even an implants for her front teeth because of the bone loss. But she should get rest of her teeth removed now and replace them with implants before she looses more of her bone.
She went to visit Eon clinic and they said that with their All of 4 technology they can create implants for all of her teeth (including the front teeth).
I would great appreciate if you can comment on the following questions:
1) How safe is the All of 4, especially for someone with major bone/gum loss?
2) Is it a common practice to get rid of all of your teeth, even if they are not loose yet?
3) Her bone loss will require the screws to be drilled diagonally to avoid sinus cavity? Is there a risk associated with that?
4) we live in the Chicagoland area? What’s the best way to get a second opinion?
Thank you!
I had #15 tooth extracted Nov 2012 and have just had a consult with the oral surgeon for an implant. I should have researched implants before the appointment so that I would be armed with pertinent questions, but I assumed he would give me the information I needed to know. Besides explaining the procedure, time required and possible pain associated he was not detailed in much more. The X-ray showed that I had 8.4mm of bone that he said should be increased to 10.0mm so that the implant he used would fit properly. I am assuming he was talking about a sinus lift vs a graft. Can the sinus area be affected detrimentally, short or long term? Being a pilot, I have constant pressure changes. Also, does bone density play a part? I am 59, postmenopausal, and overall healthy.
Cosmetically, for me, missing this tooth is not an issue. Chewing is not difficult as I do still have all my wisdom teeth. Do I risk bone loss, affect other teeth or change my bite because of teeth shifting if I don’t fill the gap of #15? I want to do whatever will
promote a healthy mouth long term, so I’d like to be aware of all the ramifications. Your website has been very helpful. Any more information you may offer is greatly appreciated. Thank you!
.I HAD AN UNFINISHED IMPLANT FOR 1 YEAR ON THE UPPER LEFT LATERAL INCISOR. IT WAS UNFINISHED BECAUSE I FEEL THE TITANIUM IMPLANT END THROUGH MY NOSE.I HAD TO FIGHT TO LET THAT IMPLANT REMOVED. ( IM TREATING IN ONE DENTAL SCHOOL THE WORK ARE MADE BY STUDENTS WITH THE SUPERVISION OF A DENTAL DOCTOR.)
THEY MADE ME RX AN CT AND THEY SAID EVERYTHING WAS OK. IT WAS A BEAUTIFUL WORK. WHEN THEY OPEN TO FINISHED THE WORK THEY SAW THAT THE IMPLANT WAS LOOSE. THEY TOLD ME THAT IT WAS ON THE BLAND TISSUE AND FINALLY THEY REMOVED. THEY PUT ME BONE AND GAVE ME ANTIBIOTICS BECAUSE THE IMPLANT WAS INFECTED.
THE DOCTOR TOLD ME THAT I LOOSE TOO MUCH BONE AND THEY HAVE TO PUT BONE BLOCK ( EXTRACT BONE FROM OTHER SITE OF MY MOUTH TO PUT ON THE SITE.) MY QUESTIONS ARE IF ITS SAFE TO PUT A SECOND IMPLANT OR ITS BETTER TO PUT A BRIDGE. HOW SAFE IS TO PUT A SECOND IMPLANT THERE. WHY THE INFECTION WAS NOT SEEN ON RX OR CT. IM SCARE TO PUT ANOTHER IMPLANT THERE.
I have an implant (#7) that I seem to be having some trouble with. The gum tissue around the implant area is very inflamed and the crown feels loose, but it is not loose. The first time I received the implant it rejected within 2 weeks, and the second implant has been in for over 2 years. The dentist gave me a special mouthwash to help with the infection, but it doesn’t seem to be helping (I’ve only been using it for about a week and half, so I don’t know if I should give it some more time). The gum tissue doesn’t seem to hurt, but it’s more or less annoying and, like I stated earlier, makes it seem like my crown is loose. It would be much appreciated if you could help me figure out what may be going on with my implant!
Hi Alyssa,
I assume you have an x-ray of the area. If a patient tells me something is loose, it usually is. You know your body best but sometimes it is really hard to tell.
Have the implant, the crown and the abutment checked carefully for looseness ASAP. Inflammation is not normal.
Respectfully,
Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
Burbank, CA
I had the remaining top teeth pulled, (lost most in a car accident in ’91), the rest were in bad shape. That was 4 months ago. Since then the dentist has had 3 dentures made and none of them (including the one I’m wearing) fit my mouth. He tries to modify them, (all 3, he has all the equipment), but they still don’t work. I can wear them to go in public, but can’t eat anything with them. After 4 months he now tells me that I should have implants and he’ll do them and modify the denture to fit the implants. I have already paid him, up front, for the bad dentures, work on my bottom teeth (8 crowns, not done yet) and for the 4 implants. BUT…Now I have lost all trust in him and am scared to have any of the work done. He makes me fell bad, like I am just a complainer. All I wanted was nice looking teeth I can eat with. $13,000 has my husband angry and me depressed.
Hi Laura,
I feel for your situation. I think there may have been unmet expectations and clear objectives on both your part and your dentist.
I suggest you both sit down and review the goals of treatment. Also review what was done and what remains. You may want to modify the plan. Take some molds of your teeth during the reassessment. This is what I would do.
I hope this helps!
Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
Thanks for the informative video. I read recently that implants do not go well for smokers, and quitting is imperative for certain period of time prior to implant planning. How accurate is this and what happens for a smoker with new implants?
Thanks!
Hi Melhem,
Smoking impairs bone healing but it does not mean you cant have dental implants. Smoking is more likely to cause bone graft failure in addition to poor healing of the implants. Smoking in any form or amount is not good. Smoking five or less per day is best.
I routinely place implants on smokers, but I have a special protocol for patients to follow.
Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
Burbank, CA
Great video on long term problems with implants. If I clench my teeth at night (not sure if I grind but probably) can a teeth guard avoid bone loss on an implant? Can one from a local pharmacy work?
Thanks
James
Hello Dr. Ramsey,
I am getting implants done probably this year. I am 31 yrs old and have a family history of not having some adult teeth that ever grew in. Unfortunately I was passed down with this heritary dental problem, and have only had a few that are now failing and all the rest are baby teeth still. I have 3 teeth on top that have been bridged my whole life and have lasted until now after the birth of my first son.
I had one tooth removed due to an abcess that possibly ate up into my sinuses through bone. Now I am looking into geting 4 implants placed with a full top denture attached on top. My dentist here wants to pull the remaining teeth and roots left since there’s not many, and place 4 implants in at angles, in order not to have to do a sinus lift. (If he went straight up he would have to do surgery to raise my sinuses in order for the posts to not go in them.)
This is the second opinion I’ve had. The first implant dr said he would have to do sinus lift, then bone grafting and then implants. Which would cost a fortune. This dr. said he could save me money by doing the screws at an angle so that they can reach some bone high up and not have to touch the sinuses.
I’m of course leaning to the dr. who is opting towards not doing the sinus lift or bone grafting due to more simplicity and cost reasons. Otherwise it’s going to cost a fortune, plus I have to eventually get my whole bottom part of my mouth done in the future too, so that will also be very expensive.
My question to you is, do you think the implants on top will last the rest of my life (since I’m so young) and succeed if he puts them at an angle and does not do any bone grafting. I’m concerned that the angle will cause extra stress on the teeth or bite and that by not adding the bone, it will not be secure enough. As I age I’m afraid of bone loss. He says he thinks there’s enough bone up high that if he uses his longest screws it will reach the bone and be secure enough. I’m not sure about this. Any thoughts???
Hi Noelle,
If you are only 31 I would build your teeth to try to last the rest of your life. I would design things so that down the road, when you need to repair an implant or the bridge it will be simple to maintain. You will have some problems just because you will have these teeth for 50 years or so!
If you have all of your teeth only supported by angled implants, if one has a problem you are going to need to replace the enitre bridge.
Make sure the teeth you are getting are not acrylic plastic either. It is better to spend the money to do the best considering your age and future with the teeth. Place more than less implants. You wont be sorry.
Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
Burbank, CA
My surgeon had to leave a root tip after my extraction. Can I still have an implant?
He left in the root because of too much bleeding.
Hi Eileen
Yes, you can still have an implant with a root tip. Sometimes it is safer to leave a piece of the root behind.
Dr. Amin
Had immediate implant (temporized) march 28 and I still have episodic pain at least every other day constant (4 weeks now). Is that normal? Seems like the top of the implant bores into my head, sometimes pinching and the gum is normal but sensitive to pressure. I am losing my mind and everyone is pointing to other reasons: tmj, sinus issues, etc. I go to one doctor and they say it’s the other doctors issue. Who can help me?
Any improvement in the last few days?
Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
Burbank, CA
Back and forth to dentist, perio, endodontist (for neighboring teeth) and physician with all saying slow healing. Meantime, the following week on vacation,the cheek starts hurting and I am told it is infected by ship’s doctor. He gives me a week of augmentin and tells me to follow up with regular doctor (who previously said I am fine). I am at my wits end… I had an abscess last year that eluded multiple x rays and mri. Found that on vacation at ER with CT scan. At this point I’ve had pain for over half of the last year every day due to dental problems. I am really scared that just like last year, an infection that doesn’t show on xrays may be spreading to other teeth. No one believes I have a problem… who can I go to?
It’s been 11 weeks and I still have issues. No inflammation, but pain and bleeding with flossing (is the floss supposed to go way up under the gumline?). Cone beam scan was normal, but I can see there is still a lot of space for the bone to fill in (dark areas). On a CT scan for sinus, I saw a black tiny bubble in between the implant and the next tooth, but the radiologist made no mention of it. There was also a black space at the top of implant, but again, I was told it’s normal. Is there a way to post xrays here?
Sorry Jenny…there is no way to post x-rays. Floss is supposed to go under the gumline.
Reading x-rays is not something that can be described here. Only a dentist or radiologist can read them.
Respectfully,
Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
Aloha Dr. Ramsey,
I have Multiple Myelom, diagnosed 9 yrs ago. I was taking Zometa I.V. once a month for 5 yrs. I now have Osteonecrosis in my jaw. I have lost all my teeth over the past 10 yrs. and am being treated by a very knowledgeable Oral Surgeon. I am and will be taking Augmentin orally til I get a port for I.V.antibiotics. I rinse with Peridex. I have 2 open extraction sites and 1 site with exsposed bone. The sites mentioned started when the last 5 teeth were removed Sept. 2014. Top left molar whole is open to my sinus. Oral Surgeon says I am healing but will take time. I am a 57 yrs old woman, losing my teeth was the foremost WORST thing that I have ever experienced. IF and WHEN things heal, will I ever be able to have implants to hold dentures in to give a bit of normalacy back to my life? I have not since October 2014 and will never take any medication in the class of Zometa. I have no pain at all but the emotional pain going on 15 months. I live in Hawaii and would gladly fly to Calif. Mahalo for any info you can offer me. Happy New Year…. 🙂
Thank you for your very kind words. Sounds like you have been through so much. Hang in there. Multiple myeloma is one of the very few conditions that contraindicates having dental implants. If you are not healing from extractions, you are extremely unlikely to heal after having dental implants. I’m sorry to tell you all of this.
I have treated many patients who take medications that can cause osteonecrosis of the jaw. Everything has to be very carefully planned and tested to lower the chance of having this complication. Most often this occurs with the medication you discussed which is intravenous Zometa and other oral bisphosphonates such as Fosamax, Actonel and other ones that act like bisphosphonates such as Prolia.
Occasionally someone that has osteonecrosis may have successful treatment by doing hyperbaric oxygen treatment but this is not available in all locations and definitely carries risks.
Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
Your situation sounds like mine . I had mine removed but still get throbbing and pressure on cheekbone. I’m going for ct scan . Please let me know how worked out.
Tooth #6 has some external resorption (and lots of pain). This is not the first tooth I will have to have removed due to this issue. I can either do a root canal and orthodontic extrusion, or an implant. If the pain goes so far up into my head that I can’t open my eye in the morning easily (and sinus headache), does that mean I might have nerve sensitivity after implant?
If the tooth is removed the nerve pain will be gone and will have no relation on the future dental implant. Find out if the resorption is near the apex or the top of the tooth. This makes all the difference.
Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S., D.A.B.O.I.
Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
Thank you so much. I really appreciate your expert guidance. If wish your office was on the east coast!
The decision has been made to do an implant (immediate load), but
I do have one more decision to make. A very talented and respected periodontist who I have a great relationship with offered to do the implant. While she is extremely experienced in delayed implants, I don’t believe she does immediate often and stated it would be a 2.5 hour procedure. My dentist prefers another specialist who does them often (1 hour procedure). Why do you think the discrepancy in time? Am I being foolish in going to the person I know vs someone who can “do them with their eyes closed”? I am scared out of my wits, but I have already made a commitment to her. I am worried about the time in the chair and the recovery time as well as the success of the surgery. I do know that she uses a template, where he does not. Might that account for additional time?
Hi Jeanette,
That is a tough decision. Remember that it is not a race! Time is not a big factor. I suggest you just ask why it takes her longer.
I would probably stick with the person you have a good relationship with.
Respectfully,
Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
Thank you… that was how I made my decision.
very informative video, thank you Dr. Amin
Thank you,
Dr. Amin
Several weeks ago I had a old lower back bridge removed. It was then suggested to get implants. So I have the back tooth (which needs to be re-capped, then space, space, then the other tooth that has to be recapped. It was a very old bridge maybe 30 years. The dentist filled some cavities in those teeth and didn’t do a root canal, thought all would be ok. Then I had the two implants put in, bone was good, but had gum graft. Dentist said not to brush just antibiotics, and antibiotic rinse. It was also found that I had a root tip still in that area that they put the implants, but the dentist thought she could remove it and then put the implants in. However, she could not and decided to put the implants anyway and said she was pleased after looking at the xrays. However now after two weeks, somewhere it feels like nerve pain and I don’t know if it is the two teeth on either side of the implant that are acting up, or the implants. I have to go back soon for further instructions on maintenance and follow up. I am petrified of any complications – the dentist will be going away for several weeks now due to the holidays. Wonder where I go from here…
Hi Juliet,
Have you seen the dentist again? It is quite possible that it could be the other teeth. Keep me posted.
Dr. Amin
Hi Naaz,
Being within 2mm of the nerve is considered safe. The training, skill, experience and judgement of your dentist during the procedure is most crucial for a great outcome.
I’m sure you will do fine. 🙂
Some implants are placed to within 0.5mm of the nerve under tacticle sensation by very experienced implant dentists.
Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry
Burbank, California
http://www.burbankdentalimplants.com
Hi Dr. Ramsey,
I was looking at your website and was wondering if you could give me a second opinion on decision I have to make very shortly and its weighing on my mind. My dentist is going to put an implant in my lower back molar and he says I have 2mm space from the nerve after the implant is put in. Is that enough space? I am 58 years old and otherwise in good health except for my WBC which is 3.5 (low). My surgery is on Aug 19th. My dentist is probably 60 years old and has been doing this for 5 years. I would really appreciate if you could give me some advice.
I hope I have posted this in the right spot, not very good at using the computer.
Thank you kindly
Naaz
You are welcome Louise!
Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry
Burbank, California
https://www.burbankdentalimplants.com
Thank you for your frankness and ability to explain implants so well. I was apprehensive about an implant but I feel it would be best for me now that I have listened to your videos.
Hi Duane,
If the tooth is cracked, extracting it asap is generally best. Keep in mind that the implant may be able to be placed at the same time of the extraction. With that in mind, it would be good to see you before the extraction.
If an immediate implant can be done predictably, it will save you time and money.
What tooth is it?
Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry
Burbank, California
http://www.burbankdentalimplants.com
i am scheduled for a extraction and at the same time to receive preparation for a back tooth implant because a crown didn,t stop the pain or infection from a decayed problem can I handle the pain more pain from the 3 roots expelled on the same day when a plastic preparation will also be put in on the same day?
HI Sally,
I am not quite sure I understand your question. Can you please clarify?
Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
Hello,
I had a root canal & crown about 2 yrs ago. The crown came loose & was hurting horrible. I saw Endo Dr yesterday & my tooth was cracked. He removed the crown but I woke up last night with horrible pain near the tooth & in my jaw & ear. Should I have the tooth removed right away? I have been taking Clindamycin for 3 days. I don’t understand why it still hurts when I have no root? Thanks for your help. I need to see you for an implant.
Thanks,
Duane
Thanks for this video explanation. You are really an expert!