Can Dental Implants Be Removed and Replaced With Dentures?
Dental implants and dentures are both tooth replacement solutions. While dental implants are a permanent solution, some patients wonder if they can ever replace them with dentures, either due to complications, personal preferences, or changing dental needs. The short answer to this is yes, dental implants can be removed and replaced with dentures.
In this blog, we will discuss when you should consider this switch and whether it really benefits you as a dental patient!
When Is Removing Implants Necessary?
Removing dental implants becomes necessary in the following circumstances:
Infection (Peri-implantitis)
Bacteria can infect the area around the implant, causing swelling and bone loss. If not treated, the implant can become loose and may need to be taken out.
Implant Failure
Sometimes the implant material fails to bond with the bone properly. This can happen soon after surgery or later if the implant becomes loose from excess pressure or bone loss.
Damage to Nearby Areas
If the implant presses on nearby teeth, nerves, or blood vessels and causes pain or harm, it might need to be removed to relieve pain and discomfort.
Bone Loss
There are chances of bone loss around the implant due to chronic illnesses like diabetes, osteoporosis, or smoking. If the bone around the implant shrinks too much, it can become unstable, requiring a removal.
Mechanical Problems
If the implant or the attached tooth breaks or becomes very loose and can't be fixed, it may have to be removed and replaced.
Poor Placement or Health Issues
If the implant was placed in the wrong spot or the person has health problems that affect the bones, it might fail and need to be removed.
Understanding the Removal of Dental Implants
Dental implants are metal posts that are placed into the jawbone to hold replacement teeth, such as crowns or dentures. They fuse with the bone over time, making them strong and permanent.
Because they are fixed into the bone, dental implants are not meant to be removed like regular dentures. They are removed only if there is a problem, like infection or damage, or if the patient has a personal preference.
Removal of dental implants mandates surgery. The dentist cuts the gum to reach the implant and carefully removes it. If the bone is damaged, a bone graft may be needed to help it heal.
Transitioning from Dental Implants to Dentures
After dental implants are removed, your mouth needs time to heal. The healing time depends on the extent of surgery and the condition of your bone. Once everything is healed, the dentist takes impressions of your mouth to make custom dentures that fit you well.
Dentures are a good option if you don’t want implants or have had complications. However, they sit on the gums and don’t protect your jawbone like implants. Your dentist can best assess your candidacy for implants or dentures based on your oral health and immune response. This will likely promise a long-lasting solution in favor of your oral health.
Overall Insight
Yes, dental implants can be removed and replaced with dentures. However, it is only considered if there is an infection, significant bone loss, damage to nearby teeth, poor placement, health issues, or complete implant failure.
Looking for high-quality dental implants or dentures? Get Implant is your answer. Request a quote at (713) 296-0329.