Should I expect to pay again? (Dentist)

[SneezedToothOut]

I was born without a full set of adult teeth. I have only 1 molar on each side at the bottom and no pre-molars. About 3 years ago one molar became non-viable and had to be removed. I had an implant fitted privately. It cost me £2500 and the implantologist said it would outlive me. I’m in my mid-40s now and was very happy with it.

About 5 weeks ago I noticed it felt slightly wobbly. Went back to see him and he determined that the internal screw had dethreaded and I would need that replaced. He said the implant itself was embedded in the jaw as it should be. He was not going to be around for 3 weeks but would order it and he refitted it. It was looser than it had been but comfortable. Due to a busy diary I was booked in 6 weeks later.

Over the past 4 weeks it has become looser by the day, becoming painful and eventually meaning I could not chew food. Yesterday it was barely hanging in there when I woke up and I could see metal very clearly. When I sneezed later that morning it flew out, including the implant that was supposed to be embedded in the jaw. I called and he’s seeing me this morning as an emergency. I’ve googled and am now fearing needing a bone graft/worst case scenario. The remaining molar is 90% filling and will fail eventually. No molars = no chewing food. This terrifies me.

I was charged £60 for the last appointment. If I do need the whole thing re-done should I be expecting to pay full whack or should the implantologist take any responsibility for the implant apparently failing?

afaia from my recent implant, if it fails it’s just one of those things and a replacement will need paying for.

Was there any form of written guarantee when he told you it would outlast you?

Would dentures be an option?

You’ll need to pay if it’s the whole implant that has failed, as that isn’t the dentist’s fault- it’s your bone that has rejected the dentistry. I would be prepared for a new implant but also be aware this may not be possible- it might have to be a gap or a denture.
If it’s a lost or loose implant retained crown I’d expect it free in the first year or so and to pay after that.

I understood an implant was the only option in this place because there isn’t anything for a denture to attach to.

guess I need to prepare for the worst then. :(

I don’t understand how it could have been fine for 3+ years, and seated properly 4 weeks ago and now not there.

Nothing in writing.

I would have thought the first thing before implant would have been to check the bone density of the jaw. I had this done before implant. If the result had been otherwise, a bone graft was recommended if suitable . It would have taken at least another six months if not longer to do. If a bone graft was not possible then the only alternative would be denture . This should have all been discussed with you before treatment.

Bone density was perfect when the implant was done. No bone graft needed. It’s been perfect for nearly 4 years. Only yesterday was there any indication of an issue with the implanted bit (when it came out).

He pressed down really hard when trying to realign the screw last month. My jaw hurt for days afterwards. I wonder if he dislodged it.

You will have to ask them . Can you do that by phone or email?

NHS fillings are guaranteed for 1 year, I've had them replaced covered by the initial cost when it's failed within the time period.

I’m seeing him today……..

it’s not NHS.

Implants are never NHS unless done in a hospital for trauma or congenital malformation.
Update us OP- I’m interested

I suspected that.

Products do tend to have an expected lifespan . You gave the impression this has failed due to their error.

30 years was mentioned. His masters dissertation was on implants in middle aged women. I was a perfect candidate.

I wonder if the force he used trying to screw it back in last month dislodged it. It was extremely painful for days afterwards.

So relieved. He thinks an infection caused it to come loose and we’re starting a new implant process in 6 weeks. No charge.

I'm very happy for you, OP. What a relief for you

Beyond relieved.