Dental implant treatment is considered the most effective treatment choice for missing teeth. Although, there have been some concerns expressed by patients about dental implants’ safety and reliability, as well as whether they are the best option for filling those gaps.
Dentures and bridges used to be the natural go-to option for missing teeth. These have given way to a more natural, aesthetically pleasing option in dental implants. Dental implants are a fantastic option to replace missing teeth and give you a new lease on life. Dental technologies have advanced significantly, and the procedure has a high success rate, providing a good long-term prognosis without causing damage to neighbouring teeth.
Although, how safe are they? Naturally, patients want to learn more about treatments and any risks associated with them. This also goes for dental implants.
Below are some of the key questions that patients seek the answer to understand if dental implants are fully safe whilst being a successful treatment.
Here are some of the key questions that patients typically ask:
Can Dental Implants Fail?
They certainly can. Implants are comparable to natural teeth in that they may not last a lifetime. Implants will never be as good as what nature designed in the first place, no matter how much you pay for them. They are, nonetheless, quite astounding and, for the most part, extremely successful.
An implant’s failure to osseointegrate (fuse) with the jawbone could result in immediate implant failure. Patients with poor dental hygiene, as well as those with uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune disease, smoking, certain forms of cancer, and poor bone density, are more susceptible to developing this condition.
Although, the dentist would examine your dental health to determine if implant treatment is right for you. They will have seen something in your dental health to pass you for implant treatment. Therefore, if you’re experiencing problems, consult your dentist as they may be able to intervene quickly.
Is My Implant Dependent On My Oral Routine?
Right! There is a dependency on you performing a strong oral routine to look after the implant for the implant to remain strong and durable inside your mouth for the long term. Neglecting your oral routine can lead to the implant failing because osseointegration can develop.
What Health Factors Can Cause My Implant To Fail?
It is important to note that certain lifestyle factors can cause problems with your dental implant.
- Smoking – If you’re a regular smoker, this can impact your immune system’s ability to heal. This means that when your implant is fitted, it’ll take longer than expected to heal from it. Consider smoking as fast as possible before your treatment.
- Periodontitis – Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease caused by a combination of genetics and poor oral hygiene. This disorder is caused by bacteria that can lead to bone loss around natural teeth. If Bacteria penetrates, this can cause problems with your implant and increase problems with your gums. It’s critical to get periodontitis under control and keep it stable. Ensure your gums remain healthy.
- Weak Bone – If there is not enough bone to anchor the implant, then the dentist will not consider you for implant treatment. If you’ve got an implant fitted, but your bone is causing the implant to loosen, you’ll need to visit the dentist as soon as possible.
Is There a Risk Of Infection With A Dental Implant?
The implant sits in living tissue when infused into the jawbone, and it is natural to be concerned about whether your implant can be infected. There is a chance of infection occurring after treatment, but the surgeon will provide you with antibiotics to reduce the chances. If you do experience it, you’ll likely develop symptoms such as:
- Swelling and bleeding
- Pain
- Loose implant
- Fever
- Pus released through the gums
- Swollen and puffy gums
The chances of an infection after treatment are fairly unlikely, but they can’t be ruled out. Take your medications and maintain good oral hygiene.
Can I Develop An Allergic Reaction To A Dental Implant?
There are studies out there that have suggested that patients may be allergic to certain metals, including titanium. Conditions that may be possible include chronic joint pain, fatigue and oral lichenoid reactions. Although, allergic reactions to metal are considered rare. You may experience sensitivity with the titanium material whilst it settles into your jawbone.
Dental implants are generally considered safe and successful. Although there is a small chance of the above factors occurring, their level is considered small. Although, if you’re seeking further support with understanding whether dental implants are safe, then consult your local dentist to get further information.