What causes dental implants to become loose repeatedly?

Question

Hi doctor,

I had a dental implant placed about four years ago. The implant is a 5 to 8.5 mm bone-level implant with an internal hex. Since then, I have had an abutment placed by a different dentist due to travel. The abutment is the gold abutment screw (regular). I need to know if this is the correct abutment. I have had to get it tightened three times now, and I am trying to determine if this is a teeth-grinding problem or if I have the incorrect abutment placed.

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com and thank you for choosing us as your provider for healthcare.

I have gone through your history and understand your concerns.

I think, based on the clinical history, it can be a combination of both occlusal derangement and incorrect abutment use. Probably, I will go for a teeth-grinding problem since after four years there is significant bone loss. I suggest you get a clinical evaluation and radiographic examination to see if the biological width has been hampered or if occlusion adjustment is needed. The abutment seems to be fine.

Hope I have solved your query.

I will be happy to help you further.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I have reviewed your attached X-rays (attachment removed to protect the patient’s identity). Based on the information, the implant was placed in loose granular bone, so osseointegration (bone ingrowth into a metal implant) may have occurred very slowly. Also, the implant has been placed at an angle, not following the long axis due to the proximity of the third molar. There is no significant abnormality, so an angled abutment needs to be placed. There is no hampering of the biological width or implant caries.

I think with time, the mobility will decrease since primary stability is weakened due to the angle and slow osseointegration. Kindly observe for one month; it will improve and stabilize. Confirmation of the angled abutment is needed; the rest is fine.

I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.