Implant Dentistry Has a High Success Rate — But It’s Not Guaranteed
Dental implants are one of the most reliable procedures in modern dentistry, with success rates often above 95%. But like any medical treatment, there is still a small percentage of cases where implants may fail — either soon after placement or years later.
At Perio Vital Clinic, our top priority is ensuring that our patients receive long-lasting, successful implant treatments. Dr. Ilse Lugo, our expert periodontist, breaks down the most common causes of implant failure and what you can do to prevent them.
1. Poor Oral Hygiene
Just because dental implants aren’t natural teeth doesn’t mean they don’t need cleaning. Plaque and bacteria can still build up around implants, leading to inflammation known as peri-implantitis, which can weaken the surrounding bone and cause the implant to loosen or fail.
Daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings are non-negotiable for implant health.
2. Smoking
Smoking restricts blood flow to the gums and slows healing — two things that are critical for implants to properly integrate with your jawbone. Studies show that smokers have a significantly higher rate of implant failure, especially in the first year after surgery.
If you’re serious about keeping your implants, quitting smoking is one of the best steps you can take.
3. Uncontrolled Medical Conditions
Conditions like diabetes, osteoporosis, or autoimmune disorders can impact how well your body heals and how stable an implant will be over time. That’s why we do thorough medical evaluations before moving forward with any implant placement.
When these conditions are well-managed, the risks drop dramatically.
4. Low Bone Density or Volume
An implant needs strong, healthy bone to hold it in place. If the bone has shrunk due to tooth loss or gum disease, the implant may not have enough support. In some cases, a bone graft is required before placing the implant.
At Perio Vital, we use advanced imaging to assess your bone structure and determine the safest treatment plan.
5. Improper Placement
Implant placement is both a surgical and artistic procedure. If the implant is not placed at the correct angle or depth, it may not integrate properly — or could fail to support the prosthetic tooth long term.
That’s why it’s crucial to work with an experienced periodontist like Dr. Lugo, who uses 3D-guided planning for every case.
6. Excessive Bite Force or Teeth Grinding
Constant pressure from clenching or grinding (known as bruxism) can overload the implant, especially during the healing period. Over time, this can lead to loosening, bone loss, or even fracture of the implant or prosthetic crown.
Custom nightguards are often recommended for patients with bruxism.
7. Delayed Follow-Ups or Ignoring Symptoms
Pain, swelling, or strange sensations around your implant should never be ignored. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming major complications. Routine checkups allow us to catch small problems before they become serious.
Final Thoughts: Most Implant Failures Are Preventable
The good news is that nearly all implant complications are avoidable with proper planning, care, and communication. At Perio Vital Clinic, we don’t just place implants — we create comprehensive strategies to ensure your long-term success.
If you’ve experienced problems with a past implant, or if you’re considering one and want it done right the first time, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ilse Lugo today. Your smile deserves the best foundation possible.
