Rejection of dental implants is a concern for both patients and professionals, occurring when the body does not accept the implant as part of itself. This phenomenon can manifest itself through various symptoms. Discover the key corrective measures to address this problem and ensure the durability and functionality of the treatment.
What is Dental Implant Rejection?
Dental implant rejection refers to a postoperative complication where the patient’s body does not accept the titanium implant that has been placed in the mandibular or maxillary bone.
Although the materials used are designed to be biocompatible and promote osseointegration (the process by which the implant integrates with the bone), on rare occasions, the body may identify the implant as a foreign object and provoke a rejection reaction.
This reaction may be due to various reasons, including a specific sensitivity or allergy to the implant components, such as certain metals, or to an overactive immune response that prevents proper integration of the implant with the surrounding bone tissue, jeopardizing the implant’s stability and functionality.
How to Know if a Dental Implant is Rejected
Signs of dental implant rejection include implant mobility, pain on pressure, swelling, and in some cases, pus or foul odor. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to contact your dentist for immediate evaluation and proper treatment to prevent further complications.
Rejection Symptoms Dental Implants
The initial symptoms of dental implant rejection can be difficult to detect, as they are often confused with the normal healing process.
However, some early signs may include:
- Persistent discomfort or pain at the implant site that does not improve with time.
- Excessive swelling or redness around the implant area.
- Bleeding or discharge at the implant site.
- Sensation that the implant is loose or movable within the bone.
Symptoms Associated with Rejection of Plates and Screws
Implants that require additional support by plates and screws may experience symptoms of rejection that include significant swelling, tenderness around the implant area, and an increased risk of infection.
Rejection may be more common if the implant materials are not fully compatible with the body.
It is essential to pay attention to these signs and consult a professional immediately if they occur.
- Intense Pain: Pain that increases rather than decreases over time may be a warning sign.
- Significant swelling in the area of the intervention.
- Tenderness or pain around the implant area.
Symptoms of Dental Implant Allergy
Biocompatible materials have revolutionized dental implants, however, they are not exempt from causing allergies or sensitivities in some patients.
Recognizing reactions such as skin rashes, swelling or a general feeling of discomfort could indicate an adverse reaction to the implant material, such as titanium.
Given these signs, it is imperative to perform allergy tests and consider alternative implant materials.
To properly diagnose and treat these allergies, it is crucial to perform a detailed anamnesis and clinical examination to identify the suspected allergen. Patch and prick tests can be used to confirm sensitivity to a given material.
If an allergic reaction is confirmed, it is essential to eliminate exposure to the allergen and manage symptoms with antihistamines and corticosteroids. In situations of more severe reactions, such as anaphylactic shock, epinephrine is the treatment of choice.
Symptoms of Infection in Dental Implants
Infections around dental implants are serious and can present symptoms such as severe pain, redness and swelling in the affected area, fever, and oozing. The infection can compromise the stability of the implant and, if left untreated, can spread to surrounding areas.
How to Know if there is Infection in a Dental Implant:
- Intense pain in the implant area.
- Redness and swelling at the implant site.
- Fever as an indication of systemic infection.
- Suppuration or drainage of pus in the implant area.
- Bad taste or odor coming from the implant area, and occasionally, pain.
Early detection and timely management of infections can save the implant and ensure its long-term success, allowing the patient to enjoy a healthy and functional smile.
Dental Implant Rejection Solutions
Antibiotic Stewardship and Improved Oral Hygiene
A primary solution to dental implant rejection caused by infection is the administration of professionally prescribed antibiotics. This treatment is complemented by a significant improvement in the patient’s oral hygiene, including:
- Proper brushing techniques.
- Mouthwashes.
- Antiseptics.
This approach not only treats the existing infection but also prevents future complications, creating a healthier oral environment that promotes osseointegration of the implant.
Implant Removal and Reassessment
In cases where mobility or instability of the implant is observed, the most direct solution may be its removal.
After the extraction, the professional must meticulously clean and disinfect the affected area. It is crucial to allow an adequate healing period before re-evaluating the possibility of reimplantation. This interval allows the bone to recover and regenerate, increasing the chances of success in future implantation attempts.
Bone Regeneration Procedures
When implant rejection is due to insufficient bone quality or quantity, bone regeneration procedures represent a viable solution.
Techniques such as bone grafting or the use of synthetic materials to stimulate bone growth can significantly improve implant support.
This strategy not only addresses the immediate problem of implant rejection but also strengthens the bone structure for future dental procedures.
Use of High Quality Biocompatible Materials Implants
When implant rejection is due to insufficient bone quality or quantity, bone regeneration procedures represent a viable solution.
Techniques such as bone grafting or the use of synthetic materials to stimulate bone growth can significantly improve implant support. This strategy not only addresses the immediate problem of implant rejection but also strengthens the bone structure for future dental procedures.
Rejection Time for Dental Implants
Early Dental Implant Rejection
Early failure of a dental implant usually occurs prior to placement of the final prosthesis, often due to biological problems during the healing process.
Among the most common causes of this type of failure are:
- Smoking.
- Uncontrolled systemic diseases (such as diabetes mellitus, AIDS and osteoporosis).
- Infections at the implant site.
- Poor positioning of the same.
- Lack of initial stability.
This type of failure usually occurs in the first few months after surgery.
Late Rejection of a Dental Implant
Late failure can manifest from 6 months to 3 years after implant placement. This may be the result of conditions such as:
- Bruxism.
- Peri-implantitis.
- Occlusal trauma.
- Poor oral hygiene.
These situations cause a loss of bone support and may lead to the need to remove the implant.
Rejection of a Dental Implant After Years of Use
Dental implant rejection can occur even years after placement due to various factors such as late infections, occlusion problems, or untreated periodontal disease. Although rare, it is important to remain vigilant for symptoms and to follow up regularly with your dentist.
How to Avoid or Prevent Dental Implant Rejection
To prevent rejection of a dental implant and ensure its success, it is crucial to: Carefully select the professional and the clinic:
- Opt for an experienced specialist and centers that use quality implants.
- Maintain impeccable oral hygiene: Thorough post-implant oral cleaning is essential to prevent infection and promote healing.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking can compromise healing and increase the risk of infection.
- Comply with postoperative indications: Follow your dentist’s recommendations on medication and care to the letter.
- Attend scheduled check-ups: Follow-up visits are key to detect and prevent possible complications early.
These steps are essential to ensure the long-term integration and functionality of the dental implant.
Rejection of Dental Implants in Smokers
Smoking is a significant risk factor for dental implant failure. Smoking restricts blood flow to the gums, slows healing and increases the risk of infections, which can lead to implant rejection. Smokers have a higher rate of implant failure compared to non-smokers.
