Risks Associated With Dental Implants?
Houston, TX
 Dental implants can be a great way to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. However, it's important to know the risks associated with the dental implant procedure before deciding if it is the right choice.
Infection
Dental implants can be a great way to restore your smile, but there is always a small risk of infection. If you are experiencing persistent bad breath, swollen gums, loose teeth, new gaps between your teeth, or visible pus, it's time for an emergency call with the doctor. Don't delay safeguarding the health of your mouth and teeth.
Nerve Damage
Although a relatively small risk, dental implants can cause nerve damage around your mouth. This may lead to uncomfortable symptoms, such as pain, numbness, or tingling. This could affect more than just the implant, including your natural teeth, gums, lips, and chin.
Sinus Problems
Although it’s unlikely, dental implant placement in the upper jaw region can draw attention to your sinuses. If an implant gets into a sinus cavity, severe complications may arise and disrupt normal nasal functions. This may require further surgical intervention, as it is crucial to maintain a healthy nasal environment that clears out allergens and other particles and conditions the air we breathe.
Implant Rejection or Failure
Your dental implant materials might not take to your mouth. Unfortunately, this can lead to an infection or instability. To avoid these issues, it’s best practice to be aware of a few potential causes: peri-implantitis (inflammation in the gums), lack of osseointegration between the bone and implant, and habits like teeth grinding. Regular checkups are vital to ensuring success with any implant procedure you receive.
Peri-Implantitis
Taking extra care of your oral health with dental implants is essential. Peri-implantitis is a form of gum disease that can develop if not appropriately monitored. Poor oral hygiene, medical conditions, and lifestyle habits may put you at risk for this condition.
Symptoms include: | • |
Inflammation
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Bleeding gums
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Infection |
These all lead up to drastic bone loss in extreme cases. Make sure to focus on proper self-care and regular monitoring with your dentist so as not to get caught off guard by peri-implantitis.
When Should You Avoid Getting Implants?
Although dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth, some conditions make them unsafe. People with uncontrolled diabetes, leukemia, those who smoke heavily or undergo radiation therapy to the head and neck should consult their dentist before considering this surgery, as it can increase their chances of complications.
Consulting Your Dentist
Implants are associated with a small risk of infection at the implant site. This is why choosing an experienced, qualified dentist who uses sterile techniques is essential. There is also a minimal risk that the implant may not fuse properly to the bone. If this happens, the implant will need to be removed and replaced. Dental implants are a safe and effective way to replace missing teeth. To learn more about dental implant cost or to schedule an appointment, please call us at (346) 250-2930. |
