Although dental implants have more than a 90% survival rate, complications can still happen. So, if you call your dentist’s office and ask them, “Why my dental implant screw fell out?” They can’t answer you right away. This is because many factors work behind it, and it needs proper examination.
Components of a Dental Implant
A dental implant has several parts. The main part is the implant screw, which attaches to your bone through a process called osseointegration. After the screw is placed, it bonds with the bone over a few weeks to months. During surgery, Dr. Kirolls Ibrahim of Céline Dental places the implant screw under the gums with a cover screw on top. He has completed an implant fellowship at the Houston Dental Education Center in Bellaire, TX.
Once the implant has bonded with the bone and is ready for the next step, a post called abutment is attached to the implant screw. Finally, a dental crown, which looks like a natural tooth, is placed on top of the abutment to complete the implant.
What Causes a Dental Implant Screw to Fall Out?
A dental implant screw can come loose or fall out for various reasons, which can affect its stability and function. The following are the main causes:
- Poor Oral Hygiene
Not maintaining good oral hygiene is a common reason for implant screws to loosen or fall out. Failing to brush, floss, or attend dental check-ups allows plaque and bacteria to build up around the implant. This can lead to infections, like peri-implantitis, which weakens the bone and gums around the implant and may cause it to fail. - Insufficient Bone Density
Successful implants rely on a strong bond with the jawbone, a process called osseointegration. If there isn’t enough bone density, this bonding is weak, creating an unstable foundation for the implant. Over time, the implant may loosen and fall out. - Incorrect Placement
Proper placement of the implant is critical. If it’s not positioned correctly or lacks secure anchoring, it can become unstable. Poor placement can also affect how well the tissue heals and bonds with the implant. - Excessive Pressure
Applying too much force during placement or from normal chewing can strain the surrounding bone. This can weaken the implant’s hold, eventually causing it to loosen or fall out. - Bacterial Infection
Infections around the implant area, often from poor hygiene or other causes, can inflame and damage the bone and gum tissue, making the environment less supportive and increasing the chance of implant failure. - Trauma
Injuries or accidents affecting the face or jaw can disrupt the implant’s attachment to the bone, causing the screw to become loose or fall out. - Material Fatigue
Although rare, implant materials can wear out over time due to constant pressure from chewing, potentially causing small fractures in the metal and leading to failure. - Medical Conditions
Certain health conditions, like diabetes or autoimmune diseases, can slow healing and raise the risk of implant complications. Some medications can also contribute to bone loss or delay healing, further affecting implant stability.
What to Do If Your Dental Implant Screw Fell Out?
First of all, stop panicking over “Why my dental implant screw fell out?” and see a dental specialist right away. Many dental practices offer emergency dentistry services so that you can reach out any time of the day. They will carefully examine the implant area and the surrounding tissue to check the stability and condition of the implant.
Depending on the situation, the specialist may reinsert the original screw or replace it with a new one. This decision will depend on the implant site’s condition, the screw’s length, and its stability. They will recommend the best option to support the implant’s long-term success and meet your needs.
Closing Note
Dental implants rarely fail or fall out. However, their components are slightly more likely to fail due to the earlier-mentioned causes. So, instead of figuring out “Why my dental implant screw fell out?” focus on reaching out to your dentist for a solution.
Visit Dr. Kirolls Ibrahim at Céline Dental Cosmetic Dentistry & Orthodontics. Our doctor of dental surgery has an extensive experience in dental implant surgery. Dial (281) 262-2332 to book an appointment.