If you are missing teeth, your dentist may have recommended the dental implant procedure. That is probably why you are wondering, "Are dental implants safe?"
Dental implants are an excellent alternative to replace lost teeth. The procedure spans at least a couple of months because your jawbone and oral tissue require time to heal between each step. Like any dental procedure, implants carry some complications and associated risks.
Let's take a look at how safe this procedure can be, what are some of the risks and benefits associated with implants, and when this procedure can be unsafe for you.
Dental implants are small titanium posts that replace the root of a missing tooth. An abutment, or connector, is placed on the implant to support a custom-made replacement tooth, known as a crown.
These implants, which are typically made of titanium, act as a foundation for artificial teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures.
For most people, dental implants are an extremely safe and simple alternative to replacing a missing tooth. In fact, if you are in good dental health, then it is highly likely that your dentist will recommend the implant procedure for you.
The materials used for dental implants are carefully selected and approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure safety and biocompatibility with the oral cavity. FDA follows international standards when approving materials deemed safe for implants.
Dental implants have a high success rate, with 90-95% of implants still functioning perfectly after ten years. In short, implants can be opted for as a safe long-term solution for your tooth replacement when performed by qualified dental professionals.
While dental implants are a great option for most people, there are certain scenarios where your dentist might not recommend or deem them safe for you.
Performing the dental implant procedure requires excellent overall health, including your oral health. So, if you have uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, or other systemic conditions that impair healing, this procedure might not be safe for you.
Your jawbone will be the structure that will support the implant post. If you are suffering from severe gum disease or significant bone loss, you might need to explore alternative treatments before considering implants.
Smoking impairs blood flow to the implant site and can interfere with the healing process, increasing the risk of implant failure and complications. If you are a compulsive smoker, then implants might not be safe for you. Smokers are typically advised to quit smoking before and after the procedure to improve their chances of success.
Patients under 18 whose facial bones are still growing are not typically considered good candidates. This is because the implants may not fit properly as the jaw continues to develop.
Dental implants enhance the cosmetic appearance of your face by maintaining the structural integrity of your jaw and preventing bone loss. This can help to prevent facial changes that may occur due to missing teeth, giving you a boost in confidence.
Missing teeth can deteriorate your jawbone health over time due to inactivity. Implants help to stimulate the jawbone, mimicking the function of a tooth root. This stimulation helps keep the jawbone intact, preventing bone loss and preserving the shape of your face over time.
Dental implants have the power to fully restore your chewing ability. They also provide you with complete speech clarity, allowing you to live a full life.
A missing tooth gives the surrounding teeth space for the rest of the teeth to move around in your ever-changing oral cavity, creating an overcrowding situation. Replacing missing teeth with implants helps prevent adjacent teeth from drifting into the empty sockets and saving you from misaligned teeth.
Your smile is usually the first thing people notice. One of the most significant advantages of getting dental implants is that you will feel more confident with your smile after getting dental implants. The natural-looking and feeling false teeth can improve your emotional well-being and encourage social interaction.
As with any surgery, there is a small risk that you could get an infection at the implant site, in the surrounding gum tissue, or in the supporting bone. After your implant procedure, if you are suffering from the following:
Get in touch with your dentist immediately, as these may be a sign of infection near the implant site.
In some instances, your body may completely reject the implant, leading to a dental implant failure where the implant fails to function properly. Implant failure may occur due to multiple reasons, including:
Peri-implantitis is a form of gum disease that is specifically related to dental implants. It is quite similar to regular gum disease and is linked to poor health and oral hygiene. Peri-implantitis causes bone loss, severe infection, and bleeding gums, leading to a risky implant failure.
Sinus problems are quite rare when it comes to dental implants, but they do pose a risk that can lead to unwanted complications with your sinuses. The implant can penetrate the sinus cavity, leading to discomfort or infection.
There is also a small risk of your facial and gum nerves getting damaged during the dental implant procedure. The nerves surrounding your implant site are vulnerable and exposed during the procedure, increasing the risk of damage unless you get the procedure done by a qualified professional.
Dental implants are considered safe in most cases, but it is important to weigh the risks with the benefits based on your particular medical history. Consider your overall health, oral health, and lifestyle habits before opting for a dental implant procedure.
The question "Are dental implants safe?" for you can only be answered by a qualified dentist after an initial consultation. If they do not deem the procedure safe for you, the dental team can recommend other alternatives for you.
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Dental implant complications are fairly rare, but when they do occur, they could include infection of the gum tissue near the implant, nerve damage, sinus problems, or tissue damage. Make sure that you discuss these risks with your dental provider and ensure you are a good candidate for the procedure.
