What to Do if a Dental Implant Breaks or Gets Damaged

Dental implants are one of the most reliable ways to restore your smile, and they’re built to last. But like anything in life, they’re not entirely immune to damage. Whether it’s from an accident, wear and tear, or another unexpected issue, a broken or loose dental implant can be concerning. The good news? There’s no need to panic. At Dentist at Towne Centre in West Chester, OH, Dr. Mandeep Pannu and her team specialize in helping patients restore their implants—and their confidence—with compassionate care and expert solutions.

How Do Dental Implants Break?

While the implant post itself is incredibly strong (usually made from titanium), the crown, abutment, or surrounding bone and tissue can sometimes be affected. Common causes include:

• Accidents Happen: A sudden impact, like a fall or sports injury, can chip the crown or disrupt the implant’s stability.
• Grinding or Clenching: If you’re prone to grinding your teeth, the extra force can lead to fractures or stress on the implant.
• Infection: Peri-implantitis, an infection around the implant, can weaken the surrounding bone and cause instability.
• Daily Wear and Tear: Over time, even the best crowns can chip or crack under regular use.

What Should You Do if Your Implant Breaks?

1. Take a Deep Breath
   First, know that a damaged implant doesn’t mean disaster. With the right care, it’s often fixable.
2. Assess and Protect
   Avoid chewing on the affected side, and stick to soft foods. If there’s pain or swelling, rinse with warm salt water to keep the area clean.
3. Call Your Dentist ASAP
   Even if the damage seems minor, it’s important to let your dentist take a look. Dr. Pannu will evaluate the implant and recommend a solution tailored to your situation.
4. Resist the DIY Fix
   We get it—trying to solve the problem yourself might be tempting. But adhesives or at-home repairs can worsen the issue or lead to infections.

How Can It Be Fixed?

Treatment depends on the severity of the issue, but common solutions include:

• Replacing the Crown or Abutment: Damaged or chipped components can often be replaced without affecting the implant itself.
• Addressing Bone Loss: If an infection or bone loss has occurred, a bone graft may be necessary to rebuild the foundation for your implant.
• Replacing the Implant Post: In rare cases where the implant post is compromised, it can be carefully removed and replaced.

Restoring Your Smile at Dentist at Towne Centre in West Chester, OH

We understand that dealing with a broken dental implant can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. At Dentist at Towne Centre, Dr. Mandeep Pannu and our caring team are here to help you navigate the process with expertise and empathy. Whether it’s a quick crown replacement or a more comprehensive solution, we’re committed to getting your smile back to its best. Contact our West Chester, OH office today to schedule an appointment—we’ll be with you every step of the way!

Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0.