Dental implant surgery is a common procedure that can provide several benefits for patients who have missing teeth. However, as with any type of surgical procedure, there are risks involved. Read on as Timberlands Dental Clinic discusses some of the risks of dental implants. We will also provide tips on how to ensure the safety of dental implants.
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- 1 What Are Dental Implants?
- 2 What Happens During Dental Implant Surgery?
- 3 Is Dental Implant Surgery Safe?
- 4 What Problems Can Dental Implants Cause?
- 5 What Is the Failure Rate of Dental Implants?
- 6 Should I Get Dental Implants Despite These Risks?
- 7 What Can I Do to Reduce the Risk of Dental Implants?
- 8 Final Thoughts
- 9 Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that feature a metal post that’s surgically implanted into the jawbone and can support a false tooth or denture. Dental implants provide strength and stability to your bite, as well as restore aesthetic beauty to your smile. Plus, unlike traditional bridgework and dentures, they don’t need adjacent teeth to be modified or filed down to fit.
Dental implants are made of titanium, a metal that is well-tolerated by the body and won’t corrode over time. Implants act like natural teeth by stimulating the jawbone. This prevents bone loss and jawbone deterioration, which can help prevent facial sagging. Because of these benefits, implants are one of the most popular tooth replacement options.
What Happens During Dental Implant Surgery?
The implant surgery process takes several appointments. During the first appointment, your dentist will assess your eligibility for implants. If you are a suitable candidate for implants, your dentist will proceed with the surgery.
During the following appointments, your dental surgeon will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area and ensure you’re comfortable during the procedure. Next, an incision is made in your gum tissue to expose the jawbone. The dental implant post is then inserted into the bone and secured with screws or other attachment devices. Finally, the gum tissue is closed with sutures, and a temporary crown is placed over the implant.
Once the titanium posts have been inserted, it will take several months for them to heal and integrate with your jawbone. After this healing period, you’ll return to the dentist, who will attach an abutment (a metal piece that connects the post to the crown) and a permanent crown.
Is Dental Implant Surgery Safe?
The safety of dental implants is not a concern, as it is generally a safe procedure. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks involved. As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection and bleeding. Additionally, implant placement can cause nerve damage in rare cases. It’s also possible for dental implants to fail if not properly placed or cared for.
What Problems Can Dental Implants Cause?
Though dental implants are a great treatment for missing teeth, they can cause complications if not properly placed or maintained. Some risks of dental implants include:
- Infection at the implant site –
If the implant becomes infected, it may need to be replaced. This can cause pain and swelling of the gums and could result in further damage to surrounding teeth or bone structure. The infection can also spread if not treated properly. - Implant failure –
In some cases, a dental implant may fail due to poor placement techniques or materials used. If the implant is not placed correctly, it could move out of position and fail to bond with the surrounding bone. This can cause pain and may need additional surgery for correction. - Peri-implantitis –
Dental implants are also prone to developing peri-implantitis or an infection of the soft tissue around the implant. This infection can weaken the bone supporting the implant, resulting in failure. - Sinus infections –
Implants can also cause sinus issues. This can happen when the implant is inserted close to the sinus cavity. Treatment may involve anti-inflammatory medications or surgery to remove the implant. - Smoking and tobacco use –
Smoking is another risk factor for implant surgery. Smokers are more likely to experience complications or have delayed healing times than non-smokers. Additionally, smoking can stain the implant. - Poor oral care –
Finally, patients who fail to practice good oral hygiene habits may be at a higher risk for implant failure. A poor dental hygiene routine can contribute to bacterial buildup, which may increase the risk of infection and implant failure.
Patients with certain medical conditions may also be at risk for complications. Those with diabetes and other diseases that compromise the immune system are more likely to experience infections or slow healing after the procedure. Those taking medications such as steroids or chemotherapy are at risk as well.
What Is the Failure Rate of Dental Implants?
The failure rate of dental implants ranges from 1 to 5%, depending on the patient’s dental health and other risk factors. The quality and amount of bone available in the jawbone will also affect its success. For patients with limited bone mass, your dentist may need to perform a bone graft to ensure a secure fit for the implant. There is risk involved in this procedure that can include pain, infection, and graft failure.
Should I Get Dental Implants Despite These Risks?
Although there are some dental implant complications, it is often the most reliable and successful treatment option for replacing missing teeth. In some cases, implants can even be stronger than natural teeth. Ultimately, the decision to get dental implants should be based on a patient’s individual circumstances and discussed between them and their dentist.
One way to ensure the safety of dental implants is to seek a qualified and experienced surgeon. The success rate for dental implants depends on many factors. A qualified doctor will be able to assess these factors and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
What Can I Do to Reduce the Risk of Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a great way to improve your oral health and appearance. Unfortunately, like any dental treatment, they do come with some risks. You can reduce the risk of complications and ensure the safety of dental implants by following your dentist’s advice.
Before the procedure, it’s important to have regular check-ups and cleanings with your dentist. This will help to ensure that your overall oral health is in good condition before undergoing any dental procedure. Make sure to inform your dentist about any medications or supplements you’re taking, as well as any recent medical procedures, such as neck radiation, prior to the implant surgery. This is because certain medications can increase bleeding during and after the procedure, which could potentially lead to complications.
After the procedure, it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions for post-operative care. Here are a few other things you can do:
- Quitting smoking.
Smoking increases the risk of implant failure and slows down the healing process. - Maintaining good oral hygiene.
Poor dental hygiene can increase the risk of infection. - Eating a balanced diet.
A healthy, balanced diet helps to promote healing and reduces the risk of infection. - Keeping current with regular dental visits.
Regular visits to your dentist can help catch infections early and maintain your implant.
By being mindful of these risks and following your dentist’s instructions, you can reduce the risks of dental implant failure. Your dentist will be able to answer any questions or concerns that you may have about the procedure.
Final Thoughts
Dental implant surgery is a safe and effective way to improve your smile. However, as with any medical procedure, there are risks involved that should be discussed with your dentist before undergoing the treatment. Knowing the potential risks of dental implants will help you prepare for the procedure and ensure you make an informed decision.
If you have any questions or concerns about the dental implant procedure, schedule a consultation with Timberlands Dental Clinic! We use state-of-the-art technology and equipment to provide you with quality implants. Our team of experienced dentists will also be able to provide the detailed information you need to make a decision about this procedure. Book an appointment online or contact our dental clinic today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dental implant surgery can take anywhere from four to eight months to fully heal. During this time, you may experience some swelling, pain, and discomfort. This can be alleviated by taking over-the-counter pain medication or using an ice pack. The healing process is slow, as the body must adapt to the new implants and allow for the growth of bone tissue around them. Your dentist will likely schedule regular follow-up appointments during this healing period in order to monitor your progress.
Infection is one of the most common dental implant complications. If your implant becomes infected, you may experience inflammation and fever. Other signs of infection include pain and swelling at the implant site, regardless of whether it is painful to the touch or not. In some cases, pus or discharge may seep from the implant site. If you notice any of these symptoms after undergoing dental implant surgery, contact your dentist immediately.
It is important to pay attention to pain, swelling, infection and other symptoms that could indicate implant failure. Other signs of implant failure include loosening or shifting of the dental crown, difficulty in chewing food on the side where the dental implant was placed, visible gaps between your jawbone and the implant surface, receding gum line (which can cause the implant to be exposed) and changes in your bite. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to contact your dentist as soon as possible.
It is possible for a dental implant to cause damage to the nerve located in your jawbone. This most commonly occurs when the implant is placed too close to or directly on top of the nerve. Symptoms of nerve damage can include numbness, tingling and/or shooting pain in the area. It is important to inform your dentist if you experience any of these symptoms after the implant surgery. If detected early, nerve damage can usually be treated successfully.
