Loose Dental Implant (What Does It Mean?)

Matt Hannan, DDS
Updated: January 16, 2024

Dental implants have revolutionized restorative dentistry, offering a reliable, aesthetically pleasing solution for replacing missing teeth.

With a 95-98% success rate, dental implants are designed to be a long-term, even lifelong, solution.

However, like any medical procedure, they are not without their potential complications.

One issue some patients may experience is a loose dental implant. Feeling your dental implant wiggle or move is alarming.

What does it mean? How does it affect your oral health? And most importantly, what should be done about it?

What Does a Loose Dental Implant Mean?

A loose dental implant is exactly what it sounds like – the implant, which should be securely anchored in your jawbone, begins to feel unstable or move. While the concept is simple, the implications can be complex.

This instability may compromise your ability to chew and speak properly and indicate underlying issues that need immediate attention.

Implants become loose for several reasons, and depending on the cause, different implant system components may be affected. It could be the crown (the visible tooth part), the abutment (the connector piece), or even the implant itself (the part embedded in your jawbone).

Causes of a Loose Dental Implant

Several factors can contribute to a dental implant becoming loose.

Common Causes

• Peri-implantitis: An inflammation causing bone loss around the implant, often due to bacterial infection. Untreated, it can lead to implant failure.
• Implant Overload: Caused by excessive force on the implant, such as from teeth grinding or misalignment, potentially loosening the implant.
• Failed Osseointegration: Occurs when the implant doesn’t properly fuse with the jawbone, possibly due to poor bone quality or health conditions like diabetes.
• Improper Implant Placement: Misalignment during surgery can result in a loose implant over time.
• Loose Prosthetic Screw: This screw connects the abutment to the implant. If loose, it can make the implant feel unstable. Regular check-ups can catch and correct this issue.

According to a recent study, screw loosening is one of the more common complications, particularly with single-tooth implant-supported crowns, with a reported incidence of 5%–12% from 1.2–7 years.

Symptoms of a Loose Dental Implant

If you’re worried about a loose implant, here are some signs to look out for:

Common Symptoms

• Movement or shifting of the implant or the crown
• Discomfort or pain around the implant site
• Difficulty or discomfort while chewing
• Swelling or inflammation of the gums around the implant
• Changes in your bite, or the way your teeth align when you close your mouth
• Odd odor or taste coming from the implant

Remember, if you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to consult your dentist promptly.

Diagnosing a Loose Dental Implant

When you visit your dentist with a suspected loose implant, they’ll likely conduct a thorough examination. This typically involves:

• A physical exam where the dentist will check for movement, mobility or signs of infection.
• X-rays or other imaging techniques to assess the condition of the implant and surrounding bone.
• A review of your dental and medical history to identify any risk factors or potential causes of implant loosening.

Treatment Options for a Loose Dental Implant

Treatment for a loose dental implant varies depending on the root cause and the loose component:

• If the crown or abutment is loose, but the implant is stable, the dentist can often tighten or replace the loose component.
• If peri-implantitis is the cause, a deep cleaning around the implant may be required, along with antibiotics, to clear up any infection. In severe cases, additional bone grafting surgery might be needed.
• If the implant itself is loose due to failed osseointegration or improper placement, it may need to be removed. After healing and possible bone grafting, a new implant can be placed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What causes a dental implant to become loose?

Several factors can contribute to a dental implant becoming loose, including peri-implantitis (an infection that leads to bone loss around the implant), implant overload (excessive force placed on the implant), failed osseointegration (when the implant fails to fuse properly with the jawbone), improper initial implant placement, and a loose prosthetic screw.

What are the symptoms of a loose dental implant?

Symptoms of a loose dental implant can include noticeable movement or shifting of the implant or the crown, discomfort or pain around the implant site, difficulty or discomfort while chewing, swelling or inflammation of the gums around the implant, and changes in your bite or the way your teeth align when you close your mouth.

How is a loose dental implant treated?

Treatment options depend on the cause of the looseness. If it’s the crown or abutment that’s loose, the dentist may simply tighten or replace these components. For peri-implantitis, a deep cleaning around the implant and antibiotics may be needed. If the implant itself is loose due to failed osseointegration or improper placement, it might need to be removed and replaced after the area has healed.

How can I prevent my dental implant from becoming loose?

Maintaining good oral hygiene is key to preventing a dental implant from becoming loose. Regular brushing and flossing can help keep harmful bacteria at bay. Additionally, avoiding habits like chewing on hard foods and teeth grinding can prevent undue stress on the implant. Regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and check-ups are also crucial for catching any potential issues early.

My Experience & Expertise

As a dentist, I understand how alarming it can be to experience a loose dental implant.

However, it’s important to remember that this issue, while concerning, is manageable.

Recognizing the symptoms early, understanding the causes, and seeking timely professional help are key to resolving the problem effectively.

Implants are designed to be a long-term solution for missing teeth, and with the right care and maintenance, they can serve you well for many years.

Keep up with your oral hygiene, attend regular dental check-ups, and don’t hesitate to contact your dental professional if you notice anything unusual. Your healthy and confident smile is our ultimate goal.

Need a second opinion? We can help! Learn more. Knowledge is power when cultivating healthy dental habits. The more informed you are, the better positioned you’ll be to prevent avoidable and potentially costly dental procedures for you and your family. Watch for future blog posts, where we’ll continue sharing important information, product reviews and practical advice!