You Are Not Alone
When Dental Work Goes Wrong
Not all dental implants and restorations are created equal. As implant dentistry has grown in popularity, so too has the number of patients who have received substandard care — implants placed at incorrect angles, crowns that don't fit properly, prostheses that fail prematurely, gum tissue that recedes to expose metal components, or infections that were never properly addressed. The result can be pain, embarrassment, difficulty eating, and a profound loss of confidence.
If you are living with a smile that was supposed to improve your life but has instead caused you ongoing problems, you are not alone — and you are not without options. At NorthStar Implant Dentistry, Dr. Kampf has extensive experience evaluating and correcting failed implant cases and compromised restorations. We understand both the physical and emotional toll of a botched outcome, and we approach every corrective case with sensitivity, thoroughness, and a commitment to getting it right.
Common Problems We See
Signs That Something Has Gone Wrong
Failed or Failing Implants
Implants that are loose, painful, or showing signs of infection (peri-implantitis) may be failing. Early intervention — including cleaning, bone regeneration, or in some cases removal and replacement — can often salvage the situation before it becomes irreversible.
Exposed Implant Components
Visible metal threads, abutments, or margins at the gumline are signs that the implant was placed too shallowly, or that gum and bone recession has occurred. Surgical correction of the soft and hard tissue can restore the aesthetic result and protect the implant long term.
Ill-Fitting Prostheses
Crowns, bridges, or full-arch prostheses that don't fit properly can cause bite problems, speech difficulties, food trapping, and accelerated wear. In many cases, the restorative work can be redone once the underlying implant positions are confirmed to be sound.
Infection & Bone Loss Around Implants
Peri-implantitis is a destructive inflammatory condition affecting the bone and gum tissue around an implant — similar to gum disease around natural teeth. Without treatment, it leads to progressive bone loss and ultimately implant failure. Early diagnosis and treatment significantly improves outcomes.
Our Process
How We Evaluate and Correct Failed Cases
Every corrective case begins with a comprehensive evaluation — including a detailed clinical examination, full cone beam CT (3D) imaging to assess the current state of your implants and bone, and an honest conversation about what went wrong, what can be corrected, and what the realistic path forward looks like. We never make promises we cannot keep, and we take the time to make sure you fully understand your options before any treatment is planned.
Corrective treatment plans are highly individualized and may involve implant removal and replacement, bone regeneration procedures, soft tissue grafting, new prosthetic work coordinated with your restorative dentist, or a combination of these approaches. Our goal is to resolve your current problems, restore your function and appearance, and ensure that the final result is built on a solid foundation that will serve you well for years to come.
Get a Second Opinion
You Deserve a Smile You Can Be Proud Of
If you are unhappy with prior dental work — or if you are experiencing pain, instability, or aesthetic concerns with existing implants or restorations — do not wait. Contact NorthStar Implant Dentistry to schedule a corrective consultation. We will give you an honest, thorough assessment and work with you to develop a plan that restores both your smile and your confidence.