Dental implants are often regarded as the gold standard for tooth replacement, providing a natural appearance and long-lasting durability. But while most implants work beautifully, not all stories have a happy ending. Unfortunately, some patients experience complications that lead to implant failure, requiring the intervention of a medical malpractice lawyer. Knowing the early signs of trouble can make all the difference in preventing more serious problems, or even holding someone accountable if something was done wrong. If you’ve recently had a dental implant and something feels off, don’t ignore it. Here are six red flags that your implant may be failing.
Pain That Doesn’t Go Away
Some discomfort is expected after receiving a dental implant. But ongoing, throbbing, or sharp pain days or even weeks later? That’s a serious red flag. Persistent pain could indicate nerve damage, improper implant placement, or infection. If over-the-counter pain meds aren’t touching the pain, or if it seems to be getting worse, it’s time to call your dentist—and possibly a lawyer if the issue stems from negligence.
Swollen or Inflamed Gums
Swelling around the implant site is normal for a short while, but it shouldn’t linger or get worse. Gums that appear red, puffy, or start to bleed may be signs of peri-implantitis, a bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone surrounding the implant. Left untreated, this infection can cause the implant to loosen or fall out. If you were never properly informed about aftercare or hygiene, a professional may be at fault.
Loose or Wobbly Implant
A well-placed dental implant should feel just like a natural tooth. If your implant feels unstable, wiggles when you chew, or shifts when you touch it, that’s a definite sign something’s wrong. Movement may indicate that the implant hasn’t integrated correctly with the jawbone. This could be due to surgical error, inadequate bone density assessment, or the use of a low-quality implant. If your dentist failed to evaluate your bone structure properly beforehand, that could be a sign of malpractice.
Gum Recession Around the Implant
Take a good look at your gums. Are they pulling away from the implant or exposing metal? Gum recession not only affects your smile, but it also compromises the entire stability of the implant. It can result from poor surgical technique, improper implant angling, or an oversized implant. A shrinking gum line can also invite bacteria and infection. If this condition develops quickly and without a clear cause, your provider may not have followed best practices.
Difficulty Chewing or Biting
Eating should not feel like a chore after healing from implant surgery. If you find yourself avoiding certain foods, experiencing pain while chewing, or noticing a strange sensation when biting down, you may have a failed implant. These issues can indicate problems with the implant’s positioning or attachment. In some cases, it may not have fused properly with the jawbone. If your provider rushed the healing process or skipped important steps, they could be liable.
Persistent Bad Breath or a Bad Taste
Let’s face it—everyone has bad breath now and then. However, if you suddenly develop a persistent bad taste or foul odor that doesn’t improve with brushing and flossing, it could be related to your implant. Infections or tissue death around a failing implant can release a strong smell. Not only is this embarrassing, but it’s a serious health concern. If your dental provider ignored warning signs or failed to clean the area properly during surgery, it may be more than just poor hygiene.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Suffer in Silence
Dental implants should improve your quality of life, not create more problems. If you’re experiencing any of these warning signs, don’t wait it out. Seek medical attention immediately and get a second opinion if necessary. Sometimes, these issues are preventable and occur because a dentist didn’t follow proper protocols. In those cases, you may have a valid medical malpractice claim. A skilled attorney can help investigate your situation and hold the responsible party accountable. Your smile—and your health—deserve justice. Contact a trusted medical malpractice lawyer today.
