Why Might Dental Implants Fail?
I’m wondering what criteria increase the risk of implant failure. I am 55 years old, controlled diabetes (A1C under 6 usually, and I test blood sugar at home is not more than 120 (worst case)), and a previous smoker (stop smoking 18 months ago, 7 months before first implant). If I get dental implants, am I at a significantly higher risk that the implants might fail? What other factors lead to implant failure?
2 Comments on Why Might Dental Implants Fail?
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Dr. H Ryan Kazemi
11/25/2015
Health factors that can contribute include:
1. Smoking (having stopped smoking already, your risks are now similar to a non-smoker)
2. Uncontrolled diabetes
3. Compromised immune system
Non-health factors that can contribute to implant failure:
1. Inexperienced dentists placing implants (failures, poorly positioined implants, etc)
2. Poor bone volume or quality where implant is placed
3. Poor treatment planning and excecution (occlsion factors, incorrect implant selection)
3. Idiopathic- Very small percentage of implants may not integrate fully for unknown reasons- often a second attempt can be successful
I hope this is helpful
Dr. Kazemi
David E. Azar DDS
11/25/2015
Smoking is the Number 1 external factor that contributes to implant failure. Since you have stopped smoking you are way ahead of the curve, Congratulations by the way! Studies have shown that stopping smoking even a few weeks before dental surgery can improve the outcome. Well controlled diabetics are good candidates for dental implants. It is critical to maintain excellent oral hygiene and to see your dentist & hygienist regularly to help prevent gum disease around the implants. If you were my paient I would have no reluctance in recommending dental implants for you.
Hope that is helpful
Dr. David E Azar
