Loose Dental Implants

In this video, I address common issues with dental implants, focusing on loose implants due to bite misalignment or teeth grinding. I offer solutions and emphasize the importance of proper alignment for successful implant function.
SOP: Ensuring Stability of Dental Implants
Objective
To address issues related to loose dental implants by identifying and rectifying common causes such as misalignment of the bite and teeth grinding.
Key Steps
1. Identify the Issue: Determine if the dental implants are loose due to misalignment of the bite or teeth grinding.
2. Consultation: Offer patients the opportunity to consult with the dental office by providing pictures of the issue or scheduling an appointment for a thorough assessment.
3. Addressing Misalignment:
- Check for bite misalignment which can cause uneven pressure on the implants.
- Measure width, height, depth, tooth size, and shape to ensure proper alignment.
- Make necessary adjustments to the bridge or implants to achieve proper alignment.
4. Addressing Teeth Grinding:
- Educate patients on the impact of teeth grinding on implant stability.
- Ensure that screws holding the implants are torqued to the correct specifications.
- Advise patients on ways to reduce teeth grinding such as stress management or using a mouthguard.
5. Follow-Up:
- Conduct fine-tuning adjustments if needed to balance the bite.
- Encourage patients to reach out if issues persist or if they have further questions.
Cautionary Notes
- Misalignment of the bite can lead to uneven pressure on the implants, causing them to become loose.
- Teeth grinding can put excessive sideways force on the implants, leading to screw loosening or breakage.
- Loose implants can result in gum recession and potential implant loss if not addressed promptly.
Tips for Efficiency
- Encourage patients to seek help early if they experience issues with their dental implants to prevent further complications.
- Utilize pictures or consultations to accurately assess the situation and provide tailored solutions.
- Emphasize the importance of proper alignment and bite balance to ensure long-term stability of dental implants.
Tyler Williams DDS
Pinecrest Dental
pinecrestdds.com/implants
801-503-0035
6065 S Redwood Road
Taylorsville, UT 84123