Having missing teeth can be a distressing time. It can affect your appearance as well as your health. For those who want a permanent solution for missing teeth, you should consider dental implants. Dental implants have emerged as a groundbreaking solution for those seeking a permanent remedy for missing teeth.
While there are many different benefits of implants, there are risks and complications like with any procedure. You should be aware of all the possibilities on your journey to a better smile.
What are the Common Issues with Dental Implants?
With the help of your dental team, you can reduce your chances of problems. But, you should know what you can expect.
Infection
Infection is a risk inherent to any surgical procedure. Of course, dental implant placement is no exception. While your team will follow strict protocols during the process, there is always a slight risk of infection. Early detection and prompt treatment are key to lower this risk.
Implant Failure
Though uncommon, implant failure is a risk that you should know. This can result from factors such as a lack of fusion of the implant with the jawbone. Alternatively, excessive stress on the implant can also cause failure. There are several ways that your dental team can reduce your risks of implant failure. For example, they will make sure that you are a good candidate and provide recovery instructions.
Nerve Damage
The nearness of nerves to the implant site makes nerve damage a potential issue. However, with advancements in technology and expert dental professionals, the risk of nerve damage is low. Complete pre-operative exams ensure that the dentist places the implant with the utmost precision.
Keeping Your Implants Healthy
Just like natural teeth, implants need proper care. Peri-implantitis, a condition similar to gum disease, can develop around implants if they aren’t kept clean. Brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are key to preventing this.
Over time, bone loss can occur around implants, but good oral hygiene and a healthy diet help maintain your jawbone. In some cases, additional procedures like bone grafts may be needed to provide support.
Though uncommon, some people may have allergies to materials used in implants, like titanium. Your dentist will review your medical history and use high-quality materials to avoid reactions.
How to Lower Your Risks
The first thing you should do is set yourself up for success. Before getting implants, your dentist will thoroughly examine your mouth and overall health. Being honest about your medical history and any concerns helps your team plan the safest treatment.
Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions is crucial. Take any prescribed medications, keep up with oral hygiene, and go to all follow-up appointments. These steps help your mouth heal properly and catch any issues early.
Long-term, regular check-ups ensure your implants stay in good shape. Your dentist can spot potential problems during these visits and clean areas that are hard to reach at home. With proper care, dental implants can last for many years, giving you a confident smile you’ll love.
Why Strong Bones Matter for Dental Implants
Having enough strong jawbone is key for dental implants to work well, but many people don’t realize this. When you lose a tooth and don’t replace it, the bone underneath starts to shrink away over time. Before placing an implant, your dentist will check your bone using special 3D scans.
If your bone isn’t thick enough, you might need extra procedures like bone grafting or a sinus lift first. These steps take more time but help make sure your implant has a solid foundation to last for years.
How Your Overall Health Affects Implants
Dental implants work well for most people (over 95% of healthy patients), but some health conditions can make healing trickier. Poorly controlled diabetes can slow healing and raise infection risks. Bone-thinning conditions like osteoporosis and some medications might affect how well bone grows around the implant.
People with autoimmune diseases or those who’ve had radiation treatment to the jaw face extra challenges too. That’s why it’s so important to tell your dentist about all your health issues. They can then plan the safest approach for you. Many people with these conditions still get successful implants, just with some extra care.
The Emotional Side of Getting Implants
Getting implants is an emotional process too. The whole treatment takes several months with healing time between steps, which can test your patience. The temporary teeth you wear during treatment might feel strange at first.
Some people even second-guess their decision early on when the implant still feels new in their mouth. But nearly everyone who sticks with it ends up thrilled with their more confident smile. Talking with others who’ve been through it or staying open with your dental team can really help during the ups and downs.
At Aesthetic Dentistry Centre, we take time to explain everything clearly and support you through each step of your implant journey. We want you to feel informed and comfortable from your first visit to your final beautiful smile. Call our dental practice at (972) 382-6855 or request an appointment online anytime.