A Crown or Implant Failed After You Got Home: What to Do

Immediate steps if a crown or implant fails after returning home from dental tourism. Assessment, warranty, repairs, costs.

By Dental Curators•

Immediate Steps

  1. Assess urgency - Severe pain/swelling/infection = emergency dental care
  2. Document - Photos, symptoms, timeline
  3. Preserve records - Gather all paperwork
  4. Contact original clinic - In writing (email) with details
  5. Find local dentist - Don’t wait if painful

Common Failures

Issue Possible Causes Urgency
Crown came loose Poor cementation, decay underneath Can wait short-term but address soon
Crown fractured Material issue, trauma, bite problems Assess - may need repair/replacement
Implant painful/mobile Infection (peri-implantitis), failed osseointegration Urgent - can lose implant
Swelling/infection Poor hygiene, contamination Emergency
Bite pain Occlusion issues Should address promptly

What To Do

Day 1-2

  • Pain management - Over-counter as appropriate
  • Contact original clinic - Email with photos/details
  • Call local dentist - For assessment/urgent care
  • Avoid chewing on affected side

Get Assessment

Bring to local dentist:

  • Treatment plan, Lab Passport
  • X-rays/CBCT from abroad
  • Receipts, warranty
  • Photos of failure

Warranty Considerations

  • Check warranty - Is it covered?
  • Material warranty - Sometimes manufacturer warranty applies if traceable
  • Document claim - Follow clinic’s process exactly
  • Travel costs - Often not covered

Costs

  • Assessment: £50-£150
  • Crown re-cement/repair: £150-£500
  • Crown replacement: £500-£1,000
  • Implant issue treatment: Varies widely, can be £1,000-£5,000+

Tips

  • Don’t delay - Small issues become big problems
  • Get local assessment first for urgent issues
  • Keep everything in writing with original clinic
  • Focus on health - Fix infection/function before aesthetics
  • Be prepared for costs - Have emergency fund
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