Key Takeaways:
This guide will explore dental implant risks and possible problems in detail. The main points in this guide include the following:
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- What are dental implants?
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- Complications and risks of dental implants
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- Signs of dental implant infection
We all want a perfect smile. Your smile could be affected in one way or another by tooth loss, wide gaps, or broken teeth, but luckily, there are ways to fix your smile. The approach could be either restorative or cosmetic.
Most dental procedures are safe and will fix your smile, but they still have some complications and risks. You must understand these complications before choosing to undergo a specific procedure. This guide will cover dental implants and discuss some issues that may arise from this procedure, so you will be able to make an informed decision.
Dental implants have recently become popular thanks to their effectiveness, durability, and aesthetic appearance. This procedure is very successful, with a success rate of 95%; however, as with any medical procedure, there are some risks and downsides associated with bad dental implants.
A dental implant is a high-tech prosthetic tooth that can replace missing teeth by imitating the entire tooth structure. A “root” made of titanium is carefully inserted into the bone to support a crown, bridge, or denture, and if cared for properly, it can look, feel, and function like a real tooth and last for decades.
Dental implant technology has established itself as the solution of choice for modern patients because of the many benefits it offers over more traditional methods of tooth replacement. The advances in dental technology mean many patients can now reap the benefits of dental implants, including those who were previously told they were ineligible to do so. Problems with dental implants may still be experienced years later, though, even with the improved technology.
Complications and Dental Implant Risks
The most common risks and complications associated with dental implants include the following.
Failure of Osseointegration
Osseointegration is the process in which bone grows around and into an implant, and if osseointegration does not occur, the implant will not be stable enough to support the crown and will fail. If you have problems with your dental implant, the implant may come out on its own, or you may need to remove it surgically. You and your dentist must determine whether you should replace the dental implant or try something else if the implant fails.
Improper Dental Implant Placement
Difficulties may arise if there is an issue with the implant’s position or angle. The implant may not correctly fuse with the bone, be too close to neighboring teeth, cause pain, or become loose. The implant may need to be removed or replaced if this occurs; however, you could consider getting a second opinion from another dentist before getting another dental implant.
Infection
There is always a chance of an infection occurring during dental implant surgery. Your dentist will teach you how to care for incisions so they will heal properly. Don’t hesitate to call your dentist if you experience discomfort, edema, or drainage from the incision site.
You might need some additional procedures if an infection in the bone or gums does occur. A dental implant bump on the gum is a primary sign of implant infection.
Nerve Damage
Dental implant surgery has the potential to cause nerve injury. X-rays will help your dentist find the nerves in your mouth before the surgery begins. You should talk to your dentist about the potential hazards involved in the operation, as nerve damage might have long-lasting consequences.
Sinus Damage
One significant dental implant danger is sinus injury. The nasal sinuses are situated in a locus straight below your upper jaw. The implants positioned in the upper jaw to replace missing teeth have a chance of penetrating the sinus, which can cause pain and even infection if it happens. Your dentist will discuss the various options available to you to deal with the condition.
The good news is that the risks and complications of dental implants are very low, and if an experienced dentist conducts the procedure, the risks are even lower.
Signs of Dental Implant Infection
Getting an infection is the most likely to happen of these complications and risks. Here are a few signs that could indicate you have a dental implant infection.
Pain and Chewing Problems
You should expect some pain after any invasive dental procedure; however, the pain should be manageable with pain medication, either prescribed by a doctor or purchased over the counter. You may have an infection if the pain gets worse or spreads, especially if it gets to the point where it makes it difficult for you to speak or chew your food.
Fever and Swelling
Some swelling around the surgical site is also common following dental implant surgery; however, it should decrease after the initial few days. Any swelling that lasts longer than expected and is accompanied by fever and redness could be a sign of infection.
Constant Bad Taste in the Mouth
Infections of dental implants are caused by a buildup of harmful germs and debris. As these linger on your gums and seep into the mouth, you may experience a strange, persistent unpleasant taste. You may also have persistent bad breath.
Loose Dental Implant
Implants are secured in place by being screwed into the jawbone. Your implant, once placed, should never shift, so if an implant becomes loose or moves about, it’s a symptom that something went wrong, and you may require more surgery to fix it. Another sign of a potential issue is if your dental implant feels too large.
Leaking Pus or Bleeding Under Implant
Blood cells (both red and white) rush to an infected location to eliminate any harmful microbes. The result could be bleeding and pus from the gums.
Be sure to talk to your dentist for treatment if you experience any of the above signs.
Get Professional Help
The risk of getting bad dental implants is always there. At The Dental Team we refer our implants to our specialists to place implants – contact us today.
FAQ's
If you have a bump on your gum under a dental implant, it is important to act quickly. You should contact your dentist as soon as possible and make an appointment for an examination.
The dentist may do a biopsy or tissue sample to determine the cause of the bump. Depending on the cause, treatment could involve antibiotics or surgery. Your dentist may also advise using medications such as corticosteroids or anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling and discomfort associated with the bump.
Yes, it is possible to replace a failed dental implant. Depending on the reason for the failure, your dentist may recommend removing the implant and replacing it with a new one.
It is also important to address any underlying issues that may have caused the implant failure, such as bone quality or medical conditions. Your dentist will be able to explain all the options available and help you decide which course of action is best for you.
The three major reasons for failure of dental implants include incorrect placement, poor bone quality prior to surgery, and underlying medical conditions. Incorrect placement means that the implant is not placed correctly in the jawbone.
Poor bone quality can make it difficult for the implant to fuse with the jawbone. Lastly, certain medical conditions such as diabetes or anemia can increase the risk of implant failure as they affect the body’s ability to heal properly.
