Dealing with a Broken Dental Implant: What Are Your Options?

Q: Dealing with a Broken Dental Implant: What Are Your Options?

Hello： If you have consulted two dentists and both have informed you that the prognosis for this front tooth is poor, it is advisable to proceed with dental implant placement while the bone condition is still favorable. <br>This will help avoid spending more time and effort in th

A dental implant screw has broken off inside the tooth root?

Hello Dr.
Lin, my front tooth has a cavity, and the dentist removed the decayed part and placed a crown on the tooth root.
However, yesterday while eating chicken feet, the crown came off.
The dentist informed me that one of the screws broke inside the tooth root, so the crown cannot be reattached, and it is uncertain whether the screw can be removed.
If it cannot be extracted, I won't be able to get another crown.
Currently, I only have a temporary filling to prevent the gap in my front tooth, but I cannot bite with it at all.
I would like to ask Dr.
Lin if I should consider getting an implant, or if you have any other suggestions.
The dentist who has been treating me also mentioned that he is unsure how long this front tooth can last, and I am constantly worried about it falling out, which is really distressing.
I sincerely seek your help, and I would be very grateful.

Xiao Xian, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/03

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: If you have consulted two dentists and both have informed you that the prognosis for this front tooth is poor, it is advisable to proceed with dental implant placement while the bone condition is still favorable.
This will help avoid spending more time and effort in the future when you decide to get the implant.
Wishing you peace and good health.

Reply Date: 2016/09/03

More Info

Dealing with a broken dental implant can be a challenging situation, especially when it involves a front tooth that plays a crucial role in both aesthetics and functionality. Based on your description, it seems you are facing a few critical issues: the broken implant screw, the inability to reattach the crown, and the uncertainty about the longevity of your current dental restoration. Let’s explore your options and considerations.

Understanding the Situation
When a dental implant fails or a component of it breaks, such as the screw (also known as an abutment screw), it can lead to complications. The fact that the screw is broken and lodged in the implant can complicate matters further. If the screw cannot be removed, it may hinder the placement of a new crown or even a new implant.

Options Available
1. Consult a Specialist: The first step you should consider is consulting with an oral surgeon or a prosthodontist who specializes in dental implants. They can provide a more thorough evaluation of your situation, including the feasibility of removing the broken screw and the condition of the implant itself.

2. Implant Removal and Replacement: If the implant is deemed unsuccessful or if the screw cannot be removed, the implant may need to be extracted. After a healing period, a new implant can be placed. This is often the best long-term solution, especially for a front tooth, as it restores both function and aesthetics.

3. Temporary Solutions: While you are deciding on a long-term solution, you might want to consider a temporary dental bridge or a removable partial denture. These options can help maintain your smile and allow you to chew more effectively while you explore more permanent solutions.

4. Bone Grafting: If the implant is removed, and there is significant bone loss, you may need a bone graft before placing a new implant. This procedure helps to rebuild the bone structure, providing a solid foundation for the new implant.

5. Monitoring and Maintenance: If the current restoration is still somewhat functional, you may choose to monitor it closely while maintaining excellent oral hygiene. Regular dental check-ups will be crucial to ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly.

Considerations
- Longevity and Success Rates: Dental implants have a high success rate, but factors such as bone quality, oral hygiene, and overall health can affect outcomes. If you have concerns about the longevity of your current restoration, it’s essential to discuss these with your dentist or specialist.

- Financial Aspects: Dental implants can be costly, and it’s important to consider your budget. Many dental offices offer payment plans or financing options to help manage the costs associated with dental implants.

- Emotional and Psychological Factors: Living with a broken tooth can be distressing, especially if it affects your confidence. It’s important to address not only the physical aspects of your dental health but also the emotional impact it may have on you.

Conclusion
In summary, your best course of action is to seek a consultation with a dental specialist who can assess the situation comprehensively. They can help determine whether the broken screw can be removed, if the implant can be salvaged, or if a new implant is necessary. Meanwhile, consider temporary solutions to maintain your dental function and aesthetics. Remember, taking proactive steps now can lead to better long-term outcomes for your dental health.

Similar Q&A

What to Do If You Lose a Tooth: Options for Replacement and Care

I accidentally cracked my lower left molar while eating in the past couple of days. I later went to the dentist and had it extracted because it was split in half and very loose, causing a lot of pain. Now I’m missing a molar, which makes eating inconvenient. The dentist suggested...

Dr. Zhang Xiangyuan reply Dentistry
Dear netizens, based on the description provided: If the lower left second molar has been extracted, common options may include: (1) As previously suggested by the dentist, evaluating the possibility of dental implants (which do not require the grinding of adjacent teeth), althou...

Dealing with Broken Dental Implant Screws: What You Need to Know

Hello Dr. Huang, I had a dental implant procedure about two to three years ago, and everything went smoothly without any discomfort during this time. However, in September of this year, I suddenly experienced pain in the implant, and upon touching it, it felt loose. On September ...

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry
Dear Ms. Kristy: Hello! (The dental implant screw has broken in the implant) and it is difficult to manage! Special instruments are needed to safely remove it! It is best to have it handled at a medical center!

Options for Replacing Broken Front Teeth After an Accident

A few days ago, I was in a car accident and broke two of my front teeth. One tooth is fractured halfway, and the other is almost completely shattered. I also had an emergency root canal, and my gums were stitched with two sutures. Should I get dental implants or dentures afterwar...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
If the tooth root is not severely damaged after a fracture and the nerve has been treated, there is a chance that the periodontal ligament can recover to normal. In this case, it may be possible to perform root canal therapy followed by the placement of a crown to restore chewing...

Dealing with Fallen Dental Implants: What to Do Next?

Doctor, I originally had a fixed dental prosthesis on my front teeth, but it has come loose due to the passage of time. Should I go to a hospital dental clinic to have the screw removed and then have the prosthesis reinstalled, or can I go to any dental clinic to have it removed?

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello Xiaoyu: If the bolt has already loosened, you should first remove the bolt and then assess whether the remaining tooth structure can be used to re-secure the bolt and remake the crown. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.