April 22, 2026

What You Need to Know About Dental Implant Removal

Reviewed by Dr. Eric Beckman

Reading time: four minutes

Dental implants are designed to be long-term solutions that can improve quality of life. They function like natural teeth and support comfortable chewing, clear speech, and a stable, confident smile. While complications are uncommon, they can sometimes occur.

With two convenient locations in Aurora and Centennial, Periodontal Associates provides comprehensive periodontal and implant care to patients throughout the Denver metro area.

Can Dental Implants Be Removed?

Although designed as a long-term solution to missing teeth, dental implants can be removed. Removal may be necessary when the implant is no longer stable or the surrounding bone and gum tissue cannot support it.

If removal is recommended, it is typically due to complications such as:

Infection around the implant, known as peri-implantitis
Failure of the implant to properly integrate with the bone
Progressive bone loss that affects stability
Mechanical issues such as a loose or damaged implant
Improper positioning that affects function or long-term health

Are There Alternatives to Dental Implant Removal?

Implant removal is considered as a last resort. In many cases, the underlying issue can often be treated to preserve the implant.

Peri-implantitis treatment options may include:

Targeted cleaning and decontamination of the implant surface
Laser therapy to reduce bacteria and inflammation
Gum or bone grafting to rebuild lost support

When to Have a Dental Implant Evaluated

Changes around the implant site should be assessed early.

Signs that may indicate a problem include:

Bleeding or swelling around the implant
Discomfort or sensitivity
A feeling that the implant is loose
Persistent bad taste or signs of infection

What Happens During Dental Implant Removal?

When removal is necessary, the procedure is carefully planned to protect surrounding structures and preserve as much bone as possible.

The implant is gently separated from the bone and removed under local anesthesia and possible sedation. The goal is to minimize trauma to the area and prepare the site for healing or future treatment.

In some cases, additional procedures such as bone grafting may be performed at the same time to maintain the shape and strength of the jaw.

What Are the Risks of Dental Implant Removal?

As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks. These are generally manageable but should be considered when evaluating treatment options.

Potential risks include:

Loss of surrounding bone
Damage to nearby soft tissue
Need for additional procedures such as grafting
Temporary discomfort during healing

Because of these factors, removal is only recommended when the implant cannot be predictably stabilized or restored.

Can a Dental Implant Be Replaced After Removal?

If bone loss has occurred, bone grafting may be needed to rebuild the area before placing a new implant. After healing, a new implant can often be placed with a high level of success.

Careful planning and management of the underlying issue are key to improving long-term outcomes.

Managing Dental Implant Complications at Periodontal Associates

Successful dental implants begin with careful planning and continue with proper long-term maintenance. Dr. Beckman, Dr. Heller and Dr. Thousand carefully evaluate bone health, gum condition, and bite forces before implant placement to help reduce the risk of complications.

Because implants rely on healthy bone and gum tissue for support, long-term success depends on both proper placement and ongoing care. We take the time to educate patients on how to maintain implants and monitor their oral health over time.

We also perform thorough implant evaluations during follow-up visits. Early detection of inflammation or bone changes allows for conservative treatment before more serious complications develop.

When concerns arise, our periodontists evaluate the implant, surrounding bone, and gum tissue to determine the most appropriate next steps. In many cases, early intervention can help preserve the implant and maintain long-term stability.

Peri-Implantitis Treatment in Centennial, CO

If you have concerns about a dental implant, schedule a consultation to determine the next steps.

To book an appointment at our Aurora location, call (303) 755-4500. To book an appointment at our Centennial location, call (303) 795-5700.

FAQ

Can dental implants be removed?

Yes, dental implants can be removed if complications such as infection, bone loss, or instability occur.

How painful is it to remove dental implants?

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia or sedation, so discomfort during treatment is minimal. Some soreness may occur during healing.

How long does it take to heal after implant removal?

Healing time varies depending on the condition of the bone and whether grafting is performed. Your provider will recommend a timeline based on your case.