What Happens If You Don’t Remove the Implant After It Expires?
By Dr. Eastwood – Summerbrook Dental & Implants, Fort Worth, TX
Patients sometimes ask me, “What happens if you don’t remove the implant after it expires?” This is a common concern, and the first thing to know is that dental implants are not like fillings or crowns that “expire” after a certain number of years. Implants are designed to last decades, and with proper care, many last a lifetime.
A dental implant is a small post, usually made of titanium or zirconia, that fuses with the jawbone. Because it bonds directly to the bone, it becomes a permanent part of your mouth. Implants do not wear out the same way other dental work might. However, the crown or bridge attached to the implant may need replacement after 10–15 years due to normal wear.
Problems only happen if an implant fails or if the surrounding gum and bone become unhealthy. This can occur from untreated gum disease, smoking, or poor oral hygiene. If an implant fails and is not removed, it can lead to infection, bone loss, or damage to nearby teeth. In some cases, the area can become too weak to support a new implant without additional bone grafting.
At Summerbrook Dental & Implants, I use advanced techniques like zero bone loss principles, custom healing abutments, and highly polished zirconia to protect the gums and bone around implants. These methods help prevent problems before they start and give your implants the best chance of lasting a lifetime.
It’s also important to know that my office is a no judgment zone. Some patients feel embarrassed if they’ve had trouble with past dental work or waited too long for care. My role is not to lecture you—it’s to help you move forward with a safe plan that restores your health and confidence.
So, what happens if you don’t remove an implant after it “expires”? In most cases, nothing—because implants are built to last. But if an implant does fail, leaving it untreated can cause bone loss and infection. If you’re concerned about an older implant, schedule a consultation at Summerbrook Dental & Implants in Fort Worth. Together, we’ll check your implant, protect your bone, and create a plan that keeps your smile, comfort, and confidence strong for years to come.