Implant Mobile: Should I Give It Another Chance?
Dr. M. asks:
I have a new patient who has come to me to have an existing implant restored in the area of #4 [maxillary right second premolar]. The only information that I have is that the implant was placed approximately 8 months prior. I believe it was an immediate implant following the extraction of an abscessed tooth. On clinical examination the implant is mobile and bone loss can be seen on radiograph. The patient says that the implant has been asymptomatic. The patient does not want to see a specialist, but just wants the implant removed and a bridge done to replace the missing tooth. Is there anything I should do to give this implant another chance? If not, is there anything specific to be done when removing it when there is minimal bony integration?