Dental implant bone loss?

Question

Had implant placed about a year ago i noticed some inflammation and went back to the dentist last week he told me I lost a lot of bone due to plaque buildup? I brush my teeth twice daily and after wearing my retainer at night the inflammation is worse. i ALWAYS brush. Now looking at meeting with a gum specialist and have a 2nd surgery as a student I dont know how I am suppose to afford all this? Is it worth getting a second opinion or do I have any other options?

Kourosh Maddahi, DDS · Answer

Hi:
With implants just like teeth not only you have to brush your teeth at least twice a day, you also have to floss and get professional cleaning at least every 6 months.  Any time you feel uncomfortable you can get a second opinion, however, everything sounds right.
Best,
Dr. Maddahi

Andrea Stevens, DMD · Answer

When I am treating patients with dental implants, I see them every few months at first to ensure the area is remaining healthy. Brushing your teeth only is not enough to keep the area healthy, and the same can be said for the rest of your mouth. We recommend floss and Waterpik in addition to flossing for all patients, but especially around dental implants. The bone around an implant can be lost from bacteria at the time of implant placement, bacteria during healing, bacteria during placement of the crown or after due to excess cement being left under the gum, or well after the crown was placed due to bacteria from inadequate cleaning of the area. If you've already lost bone, trying to regrow bone around the implant will likely be unsuccessful, and sad to say you may have to have the implant removed and replaced with a new one.

Dental implant bone loss?

Answers (2)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dental Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Dental implant bone loss?

Answers (2)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dental Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.