(716) 772-7500
info@drkaplansky.com
8038 Rochester Rd. Gasport NY
Dental implants are one of the most dependable ways to replace missing teeth — when placed and cared for properly, they look, feel, and function like natural teeth.
It’s a common question: “Can implants fail years after they’re placed?” This guide explains the most frequent reasons for late implant failure, the signs to watch for, and the treatments we use to restore comfort and function. You’ll learn about peri‑implantitis, progressive bone loss, how we diagnose problems, treatment options, and practical steps you can take to reduce risk. We also describe how Dentistry by Dr. Kaplansky approaches these issues with clinical experience and patient-focused care.
Years after surgery an implant can fail when the bone or soft tissues that support it are compromised. The most common causes are peri‑implantitis — an infection and inflammation around the implant — and gradual bone loss that undermines the implant’s stability. Catching problems early greatly improves the chances of successful treatment.
Clinical studies also identify different risk patterns for early versus late failures.
Recent clinical research examines which factors are most closely linked with late implant failure.
Risk Factors for Late Dental Implant Failure
Early dental implant failure (DIF) appears about twice as often as late DIF. Early failures are more often linked to implants placed in the posterior mandible and to younger patients. By contrast, late failures are more commonly associated with older patients, poorer cancellous bone quality, and longer implants.
Potential risk factors for early and late dental implant failure: a retrospective clinical study on 9080 implants, B Al-Nawas, 2020
Peri‑implantitis is inflammation of the gum and bone around an implant, usually driven by bacterial infection. It begins much like gum disease and can progress to destroy the supporting bone if untreated. Typical signs include red or swollen gums, bleeding when you brush, and occasionally pus or a bad taste. If peri‑implantitis advances, bone loss can reach the point where the implant becomes mobile. Treatments range from deeper professional cleanings and targeted antimicrobials to surgical procedures to regenerate lost bone when needed.
Long-term implant success depends on stable bone around the fixture. Bone can be lost because of infection (like peri‑implantitis), excessive bite forces (for example, from grinding), or systemic conditions such as osteoporosis. As the supporting bone diminishes, the implant can loosen and ultimately fail. Regular monitoring and timely interventions — including bone grafting when appropriate — help protect an implant’s longevity.
Spotting early signs of trouble matters. Pain, swelling, or any movement of the implant are red flags that the supporting tissues may be compromised and should prompt an exam.
Persistent or worsening discomfort around an implant is not normal. Swelling, ongoing soreness, or the sensation that the crown or implant is shifting are all reasons to contact your dentist. These symptoms often signal inflammation or infection and can reflect underlying bone loss.
Pay attention to gum recession that exposes metal or the abutment, new sensitivity near the implant, gaps forming between the gum and prosthesis, or any discharge. These are signs of infection or progressing peri‑implant disease and should be evaluated promptly to prevent further damage.
Diagnosis starts with a clinical exam and imaging to check bone levels, soft tissue health, and how well the implant is integrated. From that assessment, we develop a treatment plan tailored to the cause and severity of the problem.
Dr. Kaplansky uses up‑to‑date diagnostic tools — including digital X‑rays and 3D cone beam CT (CBCT) scans — to get a precise view of the bone and surrounding structures. Those images guide an accurate diagnosis and help us plan the least invasive, most predictable treatment for each patient.
Treatment depends on how advanced the condition is. Early, mild cases often respond to non‑surgical care: enhanced home hygiene, professional debridement, localized antimicrobial therapy, and close follow‑up. More advanced cases may need surgical access to thoroughly clean the area, repair or graft bone, and in some instances remove and later replace the implant. Dr. Kaplansky emphasizes tissue preservation, restoring support, and preventing recurrence.
Prevention centers on maintenance: consistent daily care, routine professional checkups, and controlling risk factors that put stress on the implant and surrounding tissues.
Good home care makes a measurable difference. We recommend:
These simple habits reduce plaque and lower the risk of peri‑implant disease.
Evidence supports ongoing supportive care as an important factor in preventing peri‑implantitis and implant loss.
A systematic review highlights the important role of continued supportive therapy in preserving implant health and preventing complications.
Supportive Therapies Prevent Peri-Implantitis & Implant Loss
Systematic reviews show that regular supportive peri‑implant therapy reduces clinical and radiographic signs of peri‑implantitis and lowers the risk of implant loss.
The efficacy of supportive peri-implant therapies in preventing peri-implantitis and implant loss: a systematic review of the literature, A Ramanauskaite, 2016
Routine dental visits allow us to spot small changes in gum or bone health and intervene before a minor issue becomes major. If you grind your teeth, a custom nightguard protects implants from excessive forces that can accelerate bone loss or damage prosthetic parts. Together, regular monitoring and protective appliances significantly lower long‑term risk.
When implant complications occur, experience and thoughtful decision‑making matter. Dr. Kaplansky combines specialist training with a patient‑centered approach to diagnose problems accurately and create practical, effective treatment plans.
Dr. Kaplansky has substantial experience treating implant complications — from non‑surgical therapy to complex surgical revision and bone grafting. He focuses on clear explanations, individualized plans, and careful follow‑up so patients understand their options and feel supported throughout care.
For some patients, alternative implant options improve outcomes. Zirconia implants are highly biocompatible and provide a tooth‑colored solution for those concerned about aesthetics or metal sensitivity. Zygomatic implants are a specialized option for severe upper‑jaw bone loss — they anchor in the cheekbone to offer stable support when traditional implants aren’t feasible. These solutions are recommended selectively and evaluated case‑by‑case.
Long‑term care means maintaining excellent oral hygiene and keeping regular dental visits. Brush twice daily with a soft brush, clean around the implant with floss or an interdental brush, and use an antimicrobial rinse if recommended. Professional cleanings remove buildup that can lead to peri‑implantitis. Managing risk factors such as bruxism and smoking is also essential for long‑term implant health.
Key warning signs include persistent pain, swelling, or any new mobility of the implant. You might also notice gum recession, increased sensitivity, or discharge at the site. If you see any of these signs, contact your dentist promptly — early detection usually means more treatment options and a better chance of saving the implant.
Bone grafting helps create or rebuild a stable foundation when bone volume or quality is insufficient. By restoring the bone, grafting increases the likelihood of successful implant integration and long‑term stability. Your dentist will evaluate whether grafting is needed before or during implant treatment.
Age can affect bone quality and healing, which may influence implant integration. Conditions more common with age — like osteoporosis — can increase the risk of bone loss. Still, many older adults successfully receive and maintain implants with proper assessment and tailored care.
If you notice gum recession near an implant, see your dentist promptly. Exposed implant parts increase the risk of infection and further problems. Treatments such as soft tissue grafting may be recommended to restore gum coverage and protect the implant. Early action improves outcomes.
Yes. Conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and osteoporosis can affect healing and bone health, raising the risk of implant complications. Be sure to tell your dentist about any health issues so your care plan can be adjusted and monitored appropriately.
Implant longevity varies. With good home care, regular professional maintenance, and management of risk factors, many implants last 10–15 years or longer — and some last for decades. Routine check‑ups help catch problems early so implants remain functional as long as possible.
Yes. Smoking, heavy alcohol use, and poor nutrition can impair healing and increase infection risk. Smoking, in particular, reduces blood flow to the gums and raises the risk of implant complications. Healthier habits support better long‑term outcomes.
During the initial healing period avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that place excess force on the surgical site — for example, nuts, hard candies, and chewy sweets. Choose softer foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, soups, and smoothies while the implant integrates. After healing, you can generally return to a normal diet with sensible precautions.
We typically recommend check‑ups every six months, though you may need more frequent visits if you have higher risk factors (a history of periodontal disease, bruxism, smoking, etc.). These visits let us monitor bone levels, tissue health, and the condition of prosthetic components.
Contact your dentist right away. Discomfort, swelling, or any new mobility can signal infection or bone loss that’s best treated early. Your dentist will examine the area — often using imaging — and recommend the appropriate treatment to protect the implant and surrounding tissues.
Yes. Failed implants can often be removed and replaced, but the approach depends on the cause of failure. Some cases require a healing interval and bone grafting to rebuild a suitable foundation before placing a new implant. An experienced implant dentist will evaluate your situation and recommend the best path forward.
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