With the increased use of dental implant systems, an increase in the number of implants removed from patients has also been observed. This investigation attempted to elucidate some underlying causal determinants of implant failure employing light microscopic analyses. Valuable data can be obtained from implants retrieved from patients. Implant success is predicated on proper patient selection and treatment planning, careful surgical procedures, careful prosthodontic management, and continued oral hygiene maintenance. Schlagwörter: diagnosis, inflammatory response, light microscopy, retrieved dental implants, support system