Dental Implants are a premium option for tooth replacement, but they also have their own concerns and complications to be aware of. While there is really nothing that replaces a tooth in the same way, it is still helpful to educate yourself on the possibilities that accompany dental implants.
Dental Implants
Dental Implants begin with an appointment. After x rays and screenings, your dentist or specialist will notify you of your candidacy for dental implants. If your health history, history of infections, bone availability, and jaw strength are all in alignment, you can begin the process. Over the next 3-9 months the patient will receive an anchor placement procedure. A titanium screw, called an anchor, will be inserted into the jaw through the gumline. There may be a healing cap or abutment piece attached as well. Over several months this Anchor will attach itself to the gums and bone structure of the jaw. This will allow the anchor to become a piece of the structure itself, called osseointegration. Once integrated, this anchor becomes the building block for on or multiple dental implants to be attached.
There is no replacement option that is as effective as an implant when it comes to replacing a missing tooth. The dental implant stimulates growth in the jaw and maintains correct ergonomic pressure when chewing. In this way it truly simulates all the functions of the missing tooth.
What are the potential Complications of Dental Implants?
1. Infection: Dental Infections are serious business. In lots of patients, they cause the tooth loss to begin with. Infections after surgery are scary too, because the infection has a less restricted access to the blood and tissues involved. Infections in the gums and tissue could require grafting or antibiotics. If the infection enters the jaw or bone structure, it could require removal of the entire implant structure, causing catastrophic setbacks.
2. Receding Gums: The stress on the gums could cause them to never really interact with the implanted crown, or actively recede, which would expose tooth roots throughout the mouth and lead to even greater problems for the other teeth in the mouth. Anytime further tooth loss is on the table, its not ideal.
3. Implant Failure: In the event the implant anchor or the implant crown itself does not take, follow up with your specialist. They may have a time based agreement in which to cover failure of implants. Many of these people actually care about what they do, and only want to see patients succeed. Some Dentist will repair and redo implants for patients up to 5 years after surgery free of charge for whatever reason. If there is a legitimate failure, they will help you out.
4. Persistent Nerve Damage or Pain: Some Patient report nerve pain or discomfort in the area of the implant for years after surgery, placement, and recovery. The jaw and the nerves in there is a sensitive area, and it is a potential complication for people to be aware of.
Speak with your dental care team about your concerns and options available to you before and after implantation procedures.
