Dental Implant Risks And Benefits That You Need To Know

Dental implants are a marvel of modern dental care since they are a great way to replace teeth lost to decay, periodontal disease, and injury. They provide a welcome alternative to bridgework and uncomfortable dentures that don’t fit well and aren’t much help with chewing when they slip and slide.

But like all things, exploring dental implant risks and benefits is essential before committing to dental implant surgery. So, let’s jump in and get started. 

 

Benefits Of Dental Implants

According to the AAID, dental implants are suitable for those who need to replace teeth lost through injury, infection or disease and for adults born without a tooth. Here are some benefits that may compel you to get this treatment.

 

Teeth that look 100% natural

People around you won’t be able to tell that you don’t have all your teeth because dental implants mimic natural teeth in appearance, feel, and function. Additionally, the crowns are sculpted, shaded, and contoured to create a consistent appearance and give you an incredible smile. 

 

Enhanced dental health

The placement of dental implants does not need to affect nearby teeth since they are a stand-alone solution. Furthermore, individual teeth are much easier to clean around, improving oral health over the long run. 

 

 

Permanent fixed solution to tooth loss

Implants are embedded deep into the jawbone and, over time, fuse with the surrounding bone tissue to become a permanent fixture in the mouth. An implant can replace a single tooth, several missing adjacent teeth or even all of the teeth in one or both arches. 

Since implants replace the entire tooth, including the root, they can’t slip when speaking or eating, and there’s no need to remove and soak them overnight. 

 

Confidence boosting

A significant confidence drainer is feeling too embarrassed to smile. Patients can regain their confidence with implants. Many people choose dental implants for aesthetic benefits because they can give them beautifully aligned, evenly shaped, and whiter teeth. 

 

Long-lasting

In terms of longevity, a dental implant is superior to other restorative methods. Dental implants have a 98.8 per cent survival rate and a 97 per cent success rate even after ten years. 

 

No damage to teeth or jawbone

Unlike bridges and dentures, implants do not damage neighbouring teeth or wear away the jawbone. A dental bridge involves modifying the abutment teeth on either side of the gap to accommodate dental crowns that support the bridge. A significant amount of the tooth structure is removed, weakening the teeth and leaving them susceptible to decay. Dentures sit on the body ridge and can exacerbate bone loss, causing the jaw to deteriorate and change shape.

 

So far we’ve mentioned the benefits of dental implants but since the article is about dental implant risks and benefits, it’s only right we discuss the risks. So, here goes… 

 

Possible Risks and Complications of Dental Implants

Dental implant surgery is considered one of the most reliable and predictable types of oral surgery when performed by an experienced dentist or surgeon. The implant provides strong support for the replacement teeth and regenerates the underlying bone to keep it dense and healthy. However, a dental implant does have risks, although the benefits outweigh them.

Here are a few risks of dental implant surgery: 

 

Failure to integrate

Primary implant stability following implant surgery is a significant factor for the implant to integrate with the bone. Insufficient stability at this point can lead to implant failure within the first few weeks. As the surrounding bone starts to grow around the implant it provides support and secondary stability. This continues to strengthen as integrations progress eventually leading to biological stability in the ideal situation.

When placement within the bone isn’t sufficient to provide primary implant stability there is an increased risk of integration failure.  Prophylactic antibiotics are often administered before dental implant surgery and can help reduce the risk of implant failure by a third. 

 

Sinus issues

Implants inserted in the upper jaw can occasionally migrate into the sinus cavity. When the implants are placed too close to the sinus cavity, they can cause sinus infections and other problems. 

 

Nerve/tissue injury

Sometimes a dentist places an implant too close to a nerve, resulting in tingling, numbness, or pain. A 2012 study indicated that dental implant surgery-induced nerve injury can lower life quality.

Any condition involving the nerves or tissues needs to be resolved right away. It’s essential to work with an experienced dental surgeon who has expertise in dental implant surgery. 

 

Groups At High Risk

Some groups of patients are assessed on a particular instance basis for their eligibility for dental implants. These include individuals who smoke a lot, who have had radiation in the neck or head area, and those with chronic illnesses they can’t control, such as diabetes or heart disease.

If you’re considering a dental implant, first check with your dentist for an assessment of your medical and oral health. Get a free consultation at your local dental clinic. 

 

Implant Care

Following the surgeon’s aftercare instructions is vital to ensure the implant’s success.

After dental implant surgery, avoid hot meals and drinks while numb and eat soft foods for a few days. It’s also crucial to avoid strenuous exercise for 2–3 days to prevent edema.

Look for a dentist that offers a free consultation to help you fully explore the implant option. 

 

Conclusion

A comprehensive dental examination is required before a surgeon can decide whether or not a patient is a good candidate for the treatment. The reason is that for some, dental implant surgery may not be the best option. 

There are risks associated with dental implants, including infection, gum recession, and injury to nerves and tissues. So if you’re experiencing any unwelcoming side effects after implant surgery, you should go for a free dental consultation near you. 

 

Consult With A DDSS/DDII Dental Implant Professional

Speak with a member of our professional staff right away if you have questions about dental implant risks and benefits in your unique circumstances. Get in touch with DDSS/DDII by calling on (02) 8294 5812 or (02) 8294 8656 to set up an appointment and learn more about dental implants.

 

 

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. 

 

 

 

References

AAID Implant – What are dental implants
https://www.aaid-implant.org/what-are-dental-implants/who-can-benefit/

Research Gate – 10-Year Survival and Success Rates of 511 Titanium Implants with a Sandblasted and Acid-Etched Surface: A Retrospective Study in 303 Partially Edentulous Patients
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/230684277_10-Year_Survival_and_Success_Rates_of_511_Titanium_Implants_with_a_Sandblasted_and_Acid-Etched_Surface_A_Retrospective_Study_in_303_Partially_Edentulous_Patients

NCBI – Pain Management for Nerve Injury following Dental Implant Surgery
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3413988/