Can a failed implant be replaced?

Yes, in most cases. After a failed implant is removed, the site heals and is assessed for remaining bone volume. If bone was lost during the failure, a grafting procedure replenishes it before a new implant can be placed. The timeline for replacement varies from 3–9 months depending on the extent of bone loss and healing.

Why did my implant fail?

Implant failure has several causes: insufficient bone density or volume, infection during or after placement, smoking (dramatically reduces success rates), uncontrolled diabetes, certain medications (bisphosphonates, immunosuppressants), poor oral hygiene post-placement, or excessive loading force (bruxism without a night guard). Understanding the cause is important to prevent recurrence.

Does implant removal hurt?

A failed or mobile implant that has lost osseointegration can often be removed with minimal discomfort — sometimes without even needing local anesthesia, as the bond with the bone has already broken down. For implants that are still partially integrated, local anesthesia and standard surgical removal techniques are used.

Is a consultation covered by insurance?

A diagnostic consultation including X-rays and examination is typically covered or partially covered by most dental insurance plans. We'll verify your benefits when you call to schedule. Even without insurance coverage, an accurate diagnosis is worth the investment before making any decisions about your implant.

Implant Specialty

Dental Implant Failure & Salvage

Expert diagnosis and treatment for failing, infected, or mobile dental implants.

Dental implants have a 95–98% long-term success rate — but when an implant fails, it requires expert evaluation and a clear treatment plan. Whether you're experiencing pain around an implant, notice it moving, or have been told your implant has failing bone support, Dr. Burton can help. We offer comprehensive implant failure diagnosis, salvage treatment, and replacement planning.

Signs of Implant Failure

Pain or discomfort around the implant site (especially when chewing)
Implant movement or feeling loose — a healthy implant should not move at all
Swelling, redness, or bleeding of the surrounding gum tissue
Pus or discharge around the implant
Recession of gum tissue exposing the implant threads
Bone loss visible on X-ray around the implant
Implant crown feels different when biting

Early vs. Late Failure

Early failure occurs within the first few months after placement, typically due to failed osseointegration (the implant not fusing with the bone). Contributing factors include smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, infection at the surgical site, or inadequate bone quality. Late failure occurs months or years after a successfully integrated implant, most commonly from peri-implantitis — a bacterial infection of the surrounding tissue analogous to gum disease.

Peri-Implantitis Treatment

Peri-implantitis is the most common cause of late implant failure — a progressive bacterial infection that destroys the bone and tissue supporting the implant. When caught early, it can often be treated with professional cleaning of the implant surface, antibiotics, and meticulous home hygiene. Advanced cases may require surgical intervention. If you have implants, maintaining regular professional maintenance is essential for long-term success.

Salvage vs. Removal and Replacement

Not all compromised implants need to be removed. When bone loss is limited and the implant is still integrated, salvage treatment (debridement, decontamination, surgical cleaning) can arrest the problem and restore stability. When an implant is mobile, infected beyond salvage, or causing significant bone loss, removal followed by bone grafting and eventual replacement is the most appropriate path. Dr. Burton will give you an honest assessment of your specific situation.

Second Opinion — We Welcome You

If you've been told your implant is failing and you're not sure what to do next, we welcome you for a second opinion consultation. We'll take our own X-rays or CBCT scan, evaluate the implant independently, and give you our frank assessment of your options. Many patients who come to us after being told their implant needs to be removed find that salvage is possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Concerned About Your Implant?

Don't wait. Call Magnolia Family Dentistry at (512) 441-2098 for an expert evaluation of your implant and a clear path forward.

Request Appointment (512) 441-2098