Dr.David Brooksher, DDS
Address: 1010 South Acadian Thruway, Ste. A, Baton Rouge, LA 70806
  • Home
  • About Us
    • Meet Dr. Brooksher
    • Meet Our Team
    • Your First Visit
    • Contact Us
    • What Makes Us Different?
    • Patient Forms
    • Financial Policies
    • Pay Online
    • Request an Appointment
  • Cosmetic Dentistry
    • Cosmetic Dentistry
    • Smile Gallery
    • Porcelain Veneers
    • Dental Bonding
    • Teeth Whitening
    • Smile Makeover
    • Porcelain Crowns
Call us: (225) 346-8625
  • Tooth Replacement
    • Dental Implants
    • Dental Implant Hybrids
    • Implant Overdentures
    • Dentures
  • Sedation
  • Other
    • Emergency Dentist
    • Metal-Free Dentist
    • Porcelain Crowns
    • TMJ Treatment
Life-changing dentistry

Complete dental care, from checkups and cleanings to complex restorative dentistry and life-changing smile makeovers.

Request an
Appointment

Can a Dentist Save My Loose Implant?

Posted on July 21, 2023 by AllSmiles.

Last August, I had dental implant surgery. A periodontist placed the implant, and I returned to my regular dentist for a temporary crown. The dentist had difficulty getting the temporary crown on and forced it down. The crown hurt the entire time I had it.

My dentist kept saying everything was okay. He could not see anything wrong. Every time he touched the temporary crown, I felt even more pain, and I think he was afraid to try to remove it. I switched to a new dentist to get the permanent crown because I needed more confidence in my prior dentist. My new dentist says that the implant is loose. I know it is loose due to the trouble with the temporary crown. Can you give me an outside opinion on whether this can be fixed without removing the implant and doing it all over again? Thank you. Demetrius from Ohio

Demetrius,

Thank you for your question.

Can a Dentist Save Your Loose Implant?

A dental implant with the crown, abutment, and root form identified, for information on loose dental implants due to infection

A skilled implant dentist must take digital X-rays and examine your implant before determining whether they can save or remove it. Sometimes, eliminating infection around an implant or adding bone graft material can save it. If a dentist must remove it, you may require bone grafting and healing time before replacing the implant.

Why Do Dental Implants Loosen?

Reasons that a dental implant may loosen include:

  • The crown – The dental crown—not the implant itself—might be loose. If a dentist does not correctly place the crown, pressure can cause it to loosen.
  • Poor placement – If a dentist or surgeon places an implant in the wrong location, it can loosen.
  • Premature loading – Sometimes, pressure from attaching replacement teeth too soon can loosen implants.
  • Smoking – Blood vessels will constrict if you smoke during healing, and your jawbone and implants will not fuse.
  • Patient risks or habits during healing – If you grind your teeth, bite your nails, or deviate from a soft-food diet during the healing process, implants can loosen.
  • Gum disease – Infected tissue around implants can prevent your jawbone from integrating.
  • Lack of bone density – Jawbone supports implants. The implant fixtures won’t fuse to the jawbone if you lack bone density. They can easily loosen.

Select a dentist with advanced training and years of experience with dental implants or who works with a skilled oral surgeon for implant placement. Schedule at least two second-opinion appointments to compare your options.

Baton Rouge dentist Dr. Steven Brooksher sponsors this post. Dr. Brooksher is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.

Filed Under: Dental Implants Tagged With: 3d dental implants, Baton Rouge International Congress Oral Implantologists, ct scan dental implants, dental implant failure, dental implant fellow, ICOI dentist, loose dental implant, save dental implant

Never Had Issues Like This Until I Got a Dental Implant

Posted on January 17, 2022 by AllSmiles.

I lost my right second molar at age 17 and never replaced it. As an adult, I decided to do something about it. I wore a partial denture for many years, and now at age 47, I have decided to get an implant.  But I regret it because I never had dental issues like this until I got the implant.

After implant surgery, my dentist told me that he placed the implant, although my bone level was shallow. He said that if it didn’t work out, he could do a bridge instead. I was furious, and after four months, my dentist said the implant was not healing well. I had a lot of anxiety about getting an implant, and it is increasing because someone must remove the implant. But I refuse to get a bridge. I would rather leave the space empty. I’m writing out of frustration but unsure of what question to ask. – Thank you. Marcus from KY

Marcus,

Thank you for contacting our office. We understand that you must be frustrated.

Do You Have Enough Bone Volume for a Dental Implant?

Whether you have enough bone level for a dental implant is something that any responsible implant dentist determines before surgery. Implant dentists take a 3-D digital CT scan before recommending implants. The scan helps your dentist identify:

  • Bone level
  • Oral anatomy
  • Best implant location

We are also concerned because if you have had a missing tooth for 30 years, your dentist knows that you have experienced significant bone shrinkage.

How Much Does Bone Shrink When a Tooth Is Missing?

When a tooth is missing, bone shrinkage progresses rapidly. If your dentist takes a 3-D CT scan before placing an implant, they will notice the shrinkage and determine if you need bone grafting. An article published by the American Academy of Implant Dentistry on how missing teeth affect your bone notes that when you have a missing tooth, bone shrinkage occurs at these rates:

  • 25 percent in three months
  • Up to 50 percent in six months

How to Deal with Poor Implant Dentistry

When you are a victim of poor implant dentistry, your dentist owes you a refund. You paid your dentist for a service you did not receive—a healthy, functioning dental implant. Also, our dentist failed to meet the standard of care by not taking adequate x-rays to measure your bone volume. So, your dentist owes you for the implant process and negligence.

What Are Your Options After Dental Implant Failure?

If you have experienced dental implant failure, get a second opinion from a skilled implant dentist. Look for credentials from one of these organizations:

  • International Congress of Oral Implantologists
  • International Dental Implant Association
  • American Academy of Implant Dentistry
Dental implant components, including root form, abutment, and crown

Discuss your sedation options with an accredited implant dentist

Schedule an appointment for an examination. The dentist will explain your options for sedation and a comfortable procedure and recovery. And expect a skilled implant dentist to take a 3-D CT scan before recommending treatment options. Also, talk to your new dentist about your anxiety and what triggers it.

 

Dr. Steven Brooker, a Baton Rouge Fellow of implant dentistry, sponsors this post. Dr. Brooksher is accredited by the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.

Filed Under: Sedation Dentistry Tagged With: accredited implant dentist, bone grafting dental implant, bone shrink missing teeth, dental implant, dental implant failure, dental implant fellow, enough bone for dental implants, implant dentist graduate, international congress oral implantology, Jawbone dental implant

My dental implants failed in five days

Posted on October 26, 2020 by AllSmiles.

In September, I received four dental implants for $1850 each. I was supposed to receive three more implants. But I have stopped the process because two of the five implants came out the five days after surgery. Should I be charged for two implants that failed? Is this a common occurrence or do I have good reason to distrust my dentist? Thank you. Sheldon from GA

 

Sheldon,

Authority Dental estimates that dental implants have a 5% failure rate. And most failures occur over months or years—not days. Half of your dental implants failed. You should not have to pay your dental for failed implants.

Why Do Dental Implants Fail?

Dental implants fail due to infection, shortcuts, cheap implant fixtures, premature restoration, and sometimes health reasons.

  • Infection – Poor-fitting implant fixtures allows bacteria to grow around the implants and cause an infection.
  • Diagnostic shortcuts – Successful dental implants require 3-D CT scans to reveal your bone structure and surrounding areas. The scans show if you need bone grafting and where to place your implants for the best results.
  • Cheap implant fixtures – Low-quality dental implants don’t last. And they can cause infection.
  • Incorrect implant placement – Implants placed in the wrong location can loosen and fail.
  • Premature restoration – If a dentist places dental crowns or dentures on implants before the implants fuse with the jawbone, they will fail.
  • Smoking – Smoking restricts your blood flow and inhibits the healing process. Healing time will be slower, or dental implants might have.
  • Medical condition – If you have uncontrolled diabetes or a medical condition that decreases your ability to heal, it can affect the success of your dental implants.

What to Do When Your Dental Implants Fail

Diagram of the phases of a dental implant for a comparison to a partial denture.

When your dentist plans carefully, a dental implant fuses with the bone and anchors a crown

When dental implants fail, it’s wise to get a second opinion. Look for a specialist or a dentist with a fellowship in a dental implant organization like the International Congress of Oral Implantologists or the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. If two of your four implants failed on the fifth day, you’re at risk of losing the remaining implants.

Ask your current dentist for your dental records and x-rays before scheduling an appointment with an implant specialist. Although your current dentist should willingly refund you for failed dental implants, other steps you can take include:

  • Ask your new dentist to communicate with your former dentist in requesting a refund.\
  • Report your current dentist to the state dental board
  • Hire a malpractice attorney

 

We hope that your dentist will promptly refund you without resistance. Best wishes on your dental implant recovery. We hope you can soon smile with relief.

 

In Baton Rouge, you can get a dental implant second opinion from Steven Brooksher, DDS. Dr. Brooksher is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.

Filed Under: Dental Implants Tagged With: cheap dental implants, dental implant CT scan, dental implant failure, dental implant fixture, dental implant second opinion, dental implant shortcuts, dental implant xray, dental implants, dental implants diabetes, dental implants smoking, what causes dental implant failure

Dr. David Brooksher, DDS.
Meet
Dr. Brooksher

Dr. Brooksher is a past winner in the International Smile Gallery competition of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

Meet Dr. Brooksher
Dr. Brooksher Smiel Gallery
Gallery
of Smiles

Can you imagine yourself with one of these beautiful new smiles?

See the Gallery

Reviews

Slide 1

“I have horrible anxiety at dental offices. I have never been as comfortable as I am at Dr. Brooksher’s office. Everyone is really nice, accommodating, and understanding!”

Jay Alex

Slide 1 - copy

“Dr. Brooksher is humble, kind, funny, and easy to get along with. His staff is friendly, too! I have the utmost respect for his work. I've never been this comfortable going to the dentist.”

Christopher Jeffers

Slide 1 - copy - copy

“Dr. Brooksher came highly recommended by so many of my present and former coworkers. I've had fear of the dentist all my life and finally got the courage to go. I can now say for myself that he is the best—hands down.”

Patricia Madison Anthony

Slide 1 - copy - copy - copy

“Sometimes I feel that Dr. Brooksher and his staff care more about my teeth than I do. They are professional and prompt, so definitely be on time for your appointment!”

Brock George

Slide 1 - copy - copy - copy - copy

“I’ve been a patient at Dentistry by Brooksher for more than 15 years. They are always thorough and professional. Dr. Brooksher explains your options and the best treatment plans. He and his staff are a pleasure to deal with.”

Wilson Alvarez

contact
Map Too Brooksher Dental Office
Steven H. Brooksher, DDS, AAACD, FICOI
1010 South Acadian Thruway
Ste A
Baton Rouge, LA 70806

OFFICE HOURS Mon - 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday - 7:00 am - 4:00 pm
Wed - 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thurs - 7:00 am - 4:00 pm
Friday (Every other) - 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

PHONE (225) 346-8625

Request an
Appointment
Dr. David Brooksher, DDS.
Address: Steven H. Brooksher, DDS
1010 South Acadian Thruway, Ste A
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
Phone: (225) 346-8625
Pay Online
REVIEW ME:
Office Hours: Mon - 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday - 7:00 am - 4:00 pm
Wed - 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thurs - 7:00 am - 4:00 pm
Friday (Every other) - 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Best Dentist in Baton Rouge
  • Blog
  • Baton Rouge Lumineers
  • Privacy Policy

©2015-2025 Steven H. Brooksher, DDS • All rights reserved •

Website Design and SEO by Infinity Dental WebIDW logo

Mobile Menu Icon Dr. David Brooksher, DDS.
  • Home
  • About Us
    • Meet Dr. Brooksher
    • Meet Our Team
    • Your First Visit
    • Contact Us
    • What Makes Us Different?
    • Patient Forms
    • Financial Policies
    • Pay Online
    • Request an Appointment
  • Cosmetic Dentistry
    • Cosmetic Dentistry
    • Smile Gallery
    • Porcelain Veneers
    • Dental Bonding
    • Teeth Whitening
    • Smile Makeover
    • Porcelain Crowns
  • Tooth Replacement
    • Dental Implants
    • Dental Implant Hybrids
    • Implant Overdentures
    • Dentures
  • Sedation
  • Other
    • Emergency Dentist
    • Metal-Free Dentist
    • Porcelain Crowns
    • TMJ Treatment