When Dental Implants Go Wrong: Understanding Injuries Caused by Negligence

Dental implants are one of the most popular and effective ways to replace missing teeth. In fact, the American Academy of Implant Dentistry estimates that more than 3 million people in the U.S. have dental implants, and the number grows by about 500,000 each year. These restorations, when placed correctly, can last a lifetime and restore both function and confidence.

But not every implant story has a happy ending. Dental implant procedures require precision, skill, and specialized training. Unfortunately, not all dentists performing these procedures have the same level of expertise. In Atlanta, patients have suffered serious injuries from poorly performed implants—injuries that may be the result of medical negligence.

The Precision Required for Dental Implants

Dental implants involve surgically placing a titanium post into the jawbone, which then supports a crown, bridge, or denture. For the procedure to succeed, dentists must carefully assess bone density, nerve location, and bite alignment. Even a small mistake can lead to complications.

Specialized training and experience are critical. However, some practitioners market implant services without the rigorous training needed to perform them safely. That puts patients at risk.

Injuries That Can Result from Negligence

When dental implants are not placed correctly, patients may experience:

• Nerve damage – Improper placement can injure nerves, causing chronic pain, tingling, or numbness in the lips, tongue, and chin.
• Sinus complications – In upper jaw implants, a poorly positioned implant can puncture the sinus cavity, leading to infections and breathing issues.
• Jawbone fractures – Over-drilling or failing to evaluate bone density can weaken the jaw, resulting in fractures.
• Infections – A lack of sterile technique or poor aftercare guidance may cause infections that threaten both the implant and overall health.
• – Misalignment or poor surgical planning can cause implants to loosen, fall out, or damage surrounding teeth.

Some of these injuries require corrective surgeries, while others may lead to permanent impairment.

Recognizing Medical Negligence

Not every dental implant complication is due to negligence—sometimes, even with proper care, implants can fail. However, negligence may be involved when:

• A dentist fails to take adequate imaging before surgery.
• Risks are not properly explained to the patient.
• Implants are placed without evaluating bone or gum health.
• Infections develop because of improper sterilization or follow-up care.

In these cases, injured patients may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, corrective procedures, pain and suffering, and lost wages.

Dental Implant Injuries in Atlanta

The Atlanta metro area has seen significant growth in cosmetic and restorative dentistry, and many dental offices advertise implant services. But not all providers have the same background or training. Patients across Fulton, DeKalb, and Cobb counties have reported serious issues stemming from inadequate care.

If you’ve been harmed by a dental implant procedure gone wrong, it’s important to consult an experienced Atlanta medical negligence attorney who understands both the medical and legal aspects of your case.

Why Choose Moriarty Injury Lawyer

At Moriarty Injury Lawyer, we have extensive experience handling medical negligence and dental malpractice claims. Our team understands how devastating dental implant injuries can be, and we work tirelessly to hold negligent providers accountable.

We provide compassionate, client-focused representation, helping Atlanta patients pursue the compensation they deserve to recover from life-changing injuries.

Take the Next Step

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury from a dental implant procedure in Atlanta or the surrounding area, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone.

Contact Moriarty Injury Lawyer today for a free consultation. Let us review your case and explain your legal options for pursuing justice and compensation.