Dr Mitchell Josephs:
Nothing is perfect, and like most medical procedures, there is a failure rate. With implants it’s 5%. Not too bad, as long as it’s not yours. Here are my stats: Every time an implant has failed, (5% of the time), whenever I have re-done the case, 100% of those make it.
The most common reason for failure is peri-implantitis—an infection of the gum and bone around the implant caused by bacterial buildup from poor hygiene, food packing around ill-fitting crowns, bridges or dentures that attach to the implant.
Other factors: poor bite causing excessive loading of the implant and not waiting long enough for bone grafts and implants to heal before placing the crown or bridge.
Poorly controlled diabetes, cancer treatment, and Many drugs have been shown to increase the chance of implant failure, including meds for reflux and for osteoporosis.
After placement, meticulous home care, professional cleanings, and routine monitoring are critical. Patients should use a soft brush, floss and water pic every day.
Frequent testing of the stability of the implant with sound wave emitting devices called Penguin and Ostell, can predict if your implant is not going to make it before the permeant restorations are attached.
Dr Jonathan Josephs:
What is implant failure? Many studies define implant failure as mobility of the implant, therefore if the implant is wiggling then it has failed. If the gums around the implant have receded, and you can see the metal threads, the implant is not considered failed since it is still functioning although it may look ugly. If you do notice that grey metal threads are exposed, you should at least make your dentist aware, as this could be a sign that the implant might be prone to failing in the future. The dentist might recommend a laser procedure to zap bacteria off the implant threads to preserve the implant for many more years.