Redo Full‑Arch Implants: Why 20–30% Are Re‑Dos — and How to Avoid One

Quick Take

Experts estimate 20–30% of the full‑arch implant cases they see are re‑dos of prior work. Common causes: freehand surgery that didn’t match the prosthetic plan, poor implant distribution, and under-resourced teams trying to do too much.

“In my Oklahoma office, 20–30% of the full‑arch cases were re‑dos.” — Dr. Perry Brooks

“The biggest mistake people make is the front‑to‑back spread… You can overwhelm an implant if you don’t get the right distribution.” — Dr. Perry Brooks

What Counts as a 'Redo'?

Redo cases range from minor bite adjustments to full removal and replacement of implants. Common signs:

• Bridge won’t seat because implant angles are off.
• Fractured materials from overload or bad spread.
• Sore spots from pressure on soft tissue.
• Loose screws or frequent chipping
• Infections due to implants placed too close together or near thin bone.

Common Causes—and How to Spot Them

• 1) Freehand surgery with no clear plan

  Ask: “Will my case be planned digitally with the prosthodontist and lab?”

  “Are you using guides or robotic navigation?”

  “Can I see where the bridge will sit and how it’s supported”

• 2) Poor front‑to‑back spread

  Ask for a plan that shows proper implant spacing and minimal cantilever.

• 3) Too few hands in the room

  Ask: “Who’s in the room for surgery?” Avoid setups where one person does everything.

• 4) No on‑site technician

  Ask: “Will records be captured with photogrammetry?”

  “Is a technician involved during surgery?”

• 5) Rushed or risky aftercare

  Ask: “How will medical issues like smoking or diabetes affect healing?”

  “What’s the plan during the 4–6 week weak point?”

Who Should Consider a Second Opinion?

• Your temporary never felt right.
• You keep breaking bridge teeth
• Speech is still off.
• You haven’t seen a digital plan or been told, “This is the best we can do.”

What a Redo Evaluation Includes

1. 1) Records audit: CBCT, photos, scans, surgical notes

   We review all your previous treatment records to understand what was done and identify potential issues.

2. 2) Biomechanics check: Implant locations, spread, screw paths

   We analyze how your implants are positioned and whether they can properly support your teeth.

3. 3) Tissue health: Cement, plaque, or overbulk issues

   We check for any problems with your gums and surrounding tissues that might be causing discomfort.

4. 4) Bite and speech evaluation

   We test how well you can chew and speak with your current teeth to identify functional problems.

5. 5) Treatment options: From adjustments to staged surgeries

   We explain all available options, from simple fixes to complete replacement, based on your specific situation.

6. 6) Expectation reset: Clear talk on goals, timing, and costs

   We have an honest conversation about what's possible, how long it will take, and what it will cost.

Benefits & Risks of Redo Care

Costs & Financing

Redo care may be minor or major, from a new bridge to full replacement. We offer transparent pricing and flexible monthly plans.

Next Steps

Worried your implants may need a redo—or want to get it right the first time?

📞 Call +1 (737) 227-3037 or book your free consultation here

Smileloc's Prevention Playbook

• Team-based planning with surgeon, prosthodontist, and technician
• Guided or robotic implant placement for precision
• Separate anesthesiologist to free up the surgeon
• Photogrammetry for precise surgical records
• Follow-up focused on healing's weak point (weeks 4–6)