The short answer

Contact your dental practice promptly if an implant tooth or bridge moves. The crown, connection or implant body may be involved, and only examination can establish which. Do not tighten, glue or repeatedly test the restoration yourself.

The key points

  • Movement of a crown and movement of an implant are different problems.
  • Keep pressure off the affected restoration while arranging advice.
  • Identify the implant system if treatment was performed elsewhere.
On this page
  1. Why the distinction matters
  2. Arrange an assessment
  3. Understand repair without assumptions
  4. Sources & further reading

Why the distinction matters

A connecting component may loosen while the underlying implant remains supported. Alternatively, movement may involve the implant itself. These possibilities have different implications and cannot be reliably separated by trying to wobble the visible tooth at home.

Sources: [1]

Arrange an assessment

Explain when movement began and whether there is pain, swelling, discharge or a change in biting. Ask the practice what precautions to take until the appointment. If the restoration was fitted elsewhere, bring the records and system details so the clinician can identify the relevant components.

  • Do not use household glue or tools.
  • Do not keep biting to check whether movement remains.
  • If a part comes out, keep it safely and contact the practice.

Sources: [1]

Understand repair without assumptions

After identifying the cause, the clinician can discuss whether a component needs adjustment, repair or replacement or whether further assessment of the implant support is necessary. A loose visible tooth does not automatically justify removing the implant, and painless movement should not be ignored simply because it is comfortable.

Sources: [1]

IMPLANTVERIA · FAQ

Common questions

Can I tighten an implant screw myself?

No. The system, component condition and cause of loosening need professional assessment. Improvised tightening risks damage and does not establish that the implant is healthy.

Is a loose implant always painful?

Not necessarily. The absence of pain does not make movement harmless or identify which component is involved. Arrange a dental examination.

Sources & quality

Sources & further reading

These references inform this article. Individual recommendations require a conversation with a dental professional.

  1. Dental Implants: What You Should KnowU.S. Food and Drug Administration · EN