Dental implants are everywhere these days. But you know what else is popping up more often? Implant failures. Here’s the title of a recently promoted CE course:
“Peri-Implantitis Badlands: Surviving the Wasteland of Failing Implants”
It’s like Einstein said: Doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result is the definition of insanity. So, when a patient loses teeth due to periodontal disease, why in the world would we expect implants to be immune to the same fate?
Bacteria: The Silent Saboteur
What’s one of the biggest reasons implants fail? Many of the same bacterial villains, Aa, Pg, Tf, etc., you know the culprits that are responsible for periodontal disease, are involved. The problem is, unlike natural teeth, implants lack a periodontal ligament—that tiny bit of cushion and immune defense that slows down disease progression. Once bacteria set up shop around an implant, it’s a downhill slide into peri-implantitis, often with little to no warning until it’s too late.
And here’s the kicker: By the time an implant becomes loose, the surrounding bone has already waved the white flag. Game over.
So Why Aren’t More Dental Practices Testing for Bacteria?
Given how much is at stake, wouldn’t it make sense to know what kind of bacterial enemies we’re dealing with before placing an implant? You’d think so! Yet, many providers skip this step. Some don’t even offer it as an option. Why? Here are the most common excuses:
- “Insurance won’t cover it.”
Newsflash: Insurance doesn’t cover implants most of the time either, yet people still get them. Patients are already investing thousands in their implants—why not protect that investment?
- “It’s too costly.”
Compared to what? A failed implant? A second surgery? Bone grafting? A bacterial profile test is a fraction of the cost of replacing a failed implant.
- “My doctor didn’t say it was necessary.”
Fair point—many providers don’t bring it up. But if your doctor doesn’t mention flossing, does that mean it’s not important? Exactly.
- “What would I do with the information?”
Great question! If a bacterial test reveals high-risk pathogens, the course of action might include biofilm disruption, microbiome-targeted therapy, laser treatment, or targeted periodontal care before placing the implant. It’s all about prevention, not just reaction.
- “But my patients can’t afford it.”
Ah, the classic objection. But let’s be honest—people find a way to afford what they truly want.
Think about it:
- Patients finance implants, Invisalign, and even Botox.
- They’ll happily drop $1,000 on a new iPhone (even when the old one still works).
- That daily $7 specialty coffee habit? It adds up to over $2,500 a year.
The Bottom Line: Knowledge is Power
Ignoring the bacterial threat to dental implants isn’t just risky—it’s avoidable. The science is clear: Identifying and addressing harmful bacteria before implant placement can mean the difference between long-term success and devastating failure. So why do so many patients (and even providers) hesitate when it comes to testing?
The answer often comes down to one thing: perception of value. And that’s exactly what we’ll tackle next. In Part 2, we’ll explore how to shift the conversation, overcome common objections, and use the power of ethical influence to help patients make the best decision for their health. Stay tuned—you won’t want to miss this.
Michael built a prestigious group practice in Manhattan where he focused on comprehensive, whole-body care. As he treated so many physicians, his colleagues dubbed him “The Doctor’s Dentist.”
He is a Fellow of the AGD, International Academy of Dental-Facial Esthetics, The New York Academy of Dentistry, the American College of Dentists, and a charter Fellow of the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health.
Michael teaches practice management at Temple University and speaks nationally and internationally on a variety of subjects. He and Practice Perfect Systems are the official practice management consultants to the Spencer Study Club, their Business Elite Groups.
Michael has authored 3 books, including “What the Tooth Fairy didn’t Tell You”, “Beyond Ahh: A Guide For Physician’s” and “From Here To Where; a guide for dental practice success”. He’s recently had been the chief editor of a book on Sleep Dentistry written by 24 of North America’s finest dental sleep practitioners.
Michael is on the board of 3 charitable organizations that help provide care for the indigent and people with special needs around the world.
His mission: help people who help people help more people.
- The Hidden Threat to Dental Implants: Why Ignoring Bacteria is a Risky Gamble – Part 1 - February 28, 2025
- A Competitive Advantage – Part Two - November 8, 2024
- A Competitive Advantage – Part One - November 1, 2024