Dental Implants in Apex, NC

Yes, dental implants can be removed, though it’s rarely necessary. An implant is designed to be a permanent solution that integrates securely with your jawbone. Your dentist may recommend removal in certain circumstances, such as infection, implant failure, or changes in your oral health needs.

When Implant Removal Might Be Necessary

While dental implants have a very high success rate (over 95%), certain situations may require removal:

• Peri-Implantitis: This is an infection around the implant. If the infection can’t be controlled with treatment, removing the implant may be the best option for the sake of your overall oral health.
• Implant failure: In some cases, an implant doesn't properly integrate with the jawbone. If the remains are loose or unstable after the healing period, your dentist may need to remove and potentially replace them once the area heals.
• Fracture or damage: If an implant becomes fractured or severely damaged, your dentist may recommend removal and replacement.

The Process for Removing a Dental Implant

Your dentist in Apex, NC, typically uses a specialized technique to carefully reverse the osseointegration and extract the implant with minimal bone damage. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and in many cases, a new implant can be placed once the area has healed properly.

Prevention Is Key to Implant Success

The best approach is to prevent the need for removal through good oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and following your dentist's care instructions after implant placement.

Call Bass & Watson Family Dentistry at (919) 752-4887 to discuss dental implants or if you have concerns about an existing implant.

Age can be a factor for dental implants, but not in the way you might think. There's no upper age limit for dental implants. There is a minimum age requirement because your jawbone must be fully developed before implant placement. This typically means waiting until your late teens or early twenties.

Age Requirements for Dental Implants

• Minimum age: Dental implants aren't usually recommended for children or young teens because their jaws are still growing. 
• No maximum age: Age itself doesn't disqualify you. Many patients in their 70s, 80s, and beyond are excellent candidates for dental implants. 

What Matters More Than Age

Your dentist will consider the following factors to determine if you’re a good implant candidate:

• Bone density and quality: Adequate jawbone is essential to support an implant. Bone loss from missing teeth or gum disease can affect candidacy, though bone grafting may be an option.
• Overall health: Certain conditions, like uncontrolled diabetes, active cancer treatment, or immune disorders, can affect healing and implant success.
• Oral health: If you have active gum disease or tooth decay, you will require treatment before implant placement.
• Lifestyle factors: Smoking significantly impacts implant success at any age and should be addressed before treatment.

Contact Our Apex Dental Office

If you’re considering implants and want to see if you’re a good candidate, call Bass & Watson Family Dentistry in Apex, NC, to schedule an appointment for an evaluation.