Dental Implants

Dental Implants – Risks and Benefits

Author: PV Smiles Reem Kidess | Posted on with comments

dental implants Losing a tooth can be a significant blow to both your self-confidence and oral health. Beyond the immediate aesthetic concerns, the absence of a tooth can trigger a cascade of problems. Adjacent teeth may shift, leading to changes in the bone structure of your jaw over time. Dental implants are one of the solutions available to help fill the gap.

Benefits of Dental Implants:

  1. Preservation of Bone Structure: Unlike traditional tooth replacement options such as bridges or dentures, dental implants integrate with the jawbone, stimulating bone growth and preventing deterioration.
  2. Natural Appearance and Functionality: Implants closely mimic the look, feel, and function of natural teeth, providing a seamless and comfortable chewing and speaking experience.
  3. Longevity: With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime, offering a durable and cost-effective solution for tooth replacement.
  4. Improved Oral Health: Dental implants do not rely on adjacent teeth for support, preserving their integrity and reducing the risk of decay or damage.
  5. Enhanced Self-Confidence: Restoring a complete smile with dental implants can boost self-esteem and improve overall quality of life.

Risks Associated With Dental Implant

If your dentist has offered the option of getting a dental implant, you might wonder what the risks and benefits are before you sign the dotted line. Dental implants consist of a tiny titanium post that gets installed into the jaw bone structure which then supports a prosthetic tooth. The main benefit of a dental implant is that it’s the most supportive and permanent type of restoration when compared to other surface restorations.

  1. Surgical Risks: Like any surgical procedure, there are risks such as infection, nerve damage, or damage to surrounding structures. However, these risks are minimal when performed by a skilled and experienced dental professional.
  2. Osseointegration Failure: In some cases, the titanium implant may fail to integrate successfully with the jawbone, leading to implant failure. Factors such as poor bone quality, smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, or certain medications can increase the risk of this complication.
  3. Gum Infection (Peri-Implantitis): Improper oral hygiene or pre-existing gum disease can lead to inflammation and infection around the implant site, jeopardizing its stability and longevity.

Minimizing the Risks

  1. Choose an Experienced Implantologist: Selecting a qualified and experienced implantologist is crucial. They will assess your candidacy for implants and perform the procedure with precision, reducing the risk of complications.
  2. Prioritize Oral Hygiene: Maintaining excellent oral hygiene before and after implant placement is essential for preventing infections and ensuring the longevity of the implants. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings are imperative.
  3. Follow Post-Operative Instructions: Adhering to the post-operative instructions provided by your dentist is vital for a smooth recovery and successful implant integration. This includes avoiding certain foods, practicing good oral hygiene, and attending follow-up appointments.
  4. Address Pre-existing Conditions: Inform your implantologist about any pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes or gum disease, as these may impact the success of the procedure. Proper management of these conditions before implant placement can minimize risks.
  5. Monitor for Signs of Complications: Be vigilant for any signs of complications, such as swelling, pain, or unusual sensations, and promptly report them to your dentist. Early intervention can prevent complications from worsening.

Dental implants should only be performed by a professional trained in the procedure. An office that uses up-to-date technology, such as CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) can also help minimize the risks of complications.

Dr. Reem Kidess, a dentist in the Scottsdale, AZ area, specializes in sedation dentistry and procedures like dental implants. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.