An implant crown that comes off in your hand is alarming, but it does not always mean the implant has failed. From Acton, bring the piece in, and we will find out what let go and what can be done next.
First, keep it. Rinse it gently, put it in a small container and call. A crown or abutment that detaches is often a mechanical problem, such as a screw that has loosened or cement that has let go, and the implant underneath may be perfectly sound. It can also be a sign of something deeper, which is why it needs to be looked at.
Inflamed gum and lost bone support are the other common problems, and they need different care. Removing the implant and placing a new one comes up only if the findings show it should not be kept. Even then, they are two decisions, guided by what caused the trouble, the remaining bone and gum, the tooth to be fitted and your preferences.
When you come in from Acton, we examine the implant and the piece you bring, check stability and gum health, and take suitable imaging. We explain what has happened, whether a repair is realistic, and whether a specialist's opinion would be useful. Nothing goes ahead until you understand the options.
Tell us roughly when the implant and its crown were placed and what happened. The detached part, earlier X-rays and notes from the first office can all help.
The cause might be the crown, the screw or abutment, or the implant's hold in bone. Do not try to push a crown back on or glue it. Call and describe whether it happened suddenly, after biting something hard, or after a period of looseness.
Changes in the gum around an implant should be checked even when everything feels firm. Mention what you see while cleaning and whether there is tenderness, discharge or an odd taste. The exam shows how gum and bone are doing.
Sometimes a dentist notices a change on an X-ray before you feel anything. Ask for it to be explained and compared with earlier images where possible. That makes it easier to follow why treatment is being suggested.
A detached crown is not proof of a failed implant. We check the implant itself before anyone discusses replacing it.
The aim is to decide whether the current implant can stay healthy, with or without a repair, or whether removal is wiser. If a new implant is proposed, the plan should deal with whatever led to the first problem. Swapping in new hardware does not by itself change the conditions that caused it.
Meanwhile, you need a workable tooth. Ask before any treatment how the space will look, what you can eat and whether a temporary crown or removable tooth will be used. Knowing the interim plan, any further procedures and the final tooth helps you decide whether another implant is right.
Patient information: ITI — assessing implant complications and removal
Ask whether the cause is mechanical, biological, positional or several together. You do not need the vocabulary, but you should know which part needs attention and what supports that view.
The surrounding tissue affects both repair and replacement. Ask whether grafting or healing time would be needed and how that changes the schedule.
Compare repair, replacement and alternatives, including temporary teeth, upkeep, fees and the chance that plans shift. That gives you a sound basis for choosing.
There may be several visits and sometimes a specialist involved. Ask who is responsible for each stage and when the plan will be reviewed.
We look at the symptoms, the detached piece, the implant, gum health, stability and relevant imaging. Implant system details help with sourcing parts. Mention medical changes, smoking, grinding, earlier treatment and cleaning difficulty.
Replacing a screw, abutment or crown, or treating the tissue, may solve the problem, and we consider that first. If removal is advised, ask why and what other routes exist. A specialist can help with complex questions.
The procedure, its risks and the aftercare are explained beforehand, along with whether grafting or a healing pause will follow. A new implant may be placed when the site is ready; it is not assumed to happen at once. The temporary tooth is arranged in advance.
A new implant and crown each get their own evaluation and follow-up, and the plan may change with healing. Ask when you can chew normally and how maintenance will be organised.
Advice after an assessment, a repair, a removal, a graft and a new implant varies. Keep the written instructions and the contact number of whoever is treating you now.
Chew on the other side and avoid poking the site. Do not try to reseat or glue a crown. Keep any detached part dry in a container and bring it with you.
Stick to the advice on cleaning, food and any temporary appliance. Check before wearing an old denture over the area. If something in the routine does not work for you, tell us so we can adjust it.
Follow-up keeps an eye on the gum, the parts and the new tooth. Call about new movement, discharge or increasing soreness rather than waiting for the next appointment, and mention any cleaning difficulty.
Patient information: Cambridge University Hospitals — implant care and complications
You can ask for the diagnosis and planned steps in writing, which helps if more than one clinician is involved.
Book a visit at our Bronte Street practice and bring the detached part, any records and your questions. We will explain what came loose, what else needs checking and the options for the implant and tooth.
Please call about a moving, painful or swollen implant rather than requesting online. Online booking is for non-urgent issues.
