Dental Implant Risks: What You Need to Know, Ways To Avoid Risks
If you’re considering getting dental implants to replace missing teeth, it’s important to understand the potential risks involved. While dental implants are generally considered safe and effective, like any surgical procedure, they come with some degree of risk. In this article, we’ll explore the risks associated with dental implants and provide tips on how to minimize those risks.
What Does a Dental Implant Do?
Before we dive into the potential risks of dental implants, let’s first review what they are and how they work. A dental implant is a small, screw-like post made of titanium or another biocompatible material that’s surgically placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. The implant serves as an anchor for a prosthetic tooth or bridge, which is then attached to the implant.
Potential Risks of Dental Implants
While dental implants are generally considered safe, there are some risks associated with the procedure. Here are some of the most common risks:
- Infection
Like any surgical procedure, there’s a risk of infection with dental implants. Infection can occur at the implant site or in the surrounding tissues. Symptoms of infection include pain, swelling, and redness at the implant site, as well as fever and chills.
- Implant Failure
While dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution for missing teeth, there’s always a risk that the implant will fail. Implant failure can occur if the implant doesn’t properly fuse with the jawbone, if the implant becomes loose or infected, or if the prosthetic tooth or bridge attached to the implant fails.
- Nerve Damage
There’s a risk of nerve damage with any surgical procedure, including dental implant surgery. Nerve damage can cause numbness or tingling in the lips, tongue, or chin. In rare cases, nerve damage can be permanent.
- Sinus Problems
If dental implants are placed in the upper jaw, there’s a risk of sinus problems. The implants can protrude into the sinus cavity and cause sinus pain, pressure, and infections.
Ways to Minimize Dental Implant Risks
While there’s no way to completely eliminate the risks associated with dental implants, there are steps you can take to minimize those risks. Here are some tips:
- Choose a qualified implant dentist
Make sure your implant dentist has the necessary training and experience to perform the procedure safely and effectively. Ask about their credentials and how many implant procedures they’ve performed.
- Practice good oral hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene before and after the procedure can help prevent infection and implant failure. Brush and floss regularly and visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
- Follow post-operative instructions
After the procedure, your implant dentist will provide you with instructions on how to care for your implants. It’s important to follow these instructions closely to minimize the risk of infection and implant failure.
- Avoid smoking
Smoking can increase the risk of implant failure and infection. If you’re a smoker, talk to your implant dentist about quitting before the procedure.
- Get regular checkups
Regular checkups with your implant dentist can help identify potential problems early on and prevent complications down the road.
FAQs
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution for missing teeth and can last a lifetime with proper care.
How painful is the dental implant procedure?
Most patients experience only minor discomfort
Are dental implants safe for everyone?
While dental implants are generally safe, they may not be suitable for everyone. Your implant dentist will evaluate your oral health and medical history to determine if dental implants are the right choice for you.
Can dental implants cause cancer?
There is no evidence to suggest that dental implants cause cancer.
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost of dental implants varies depending on several factors, including the number of implants needed and the complexity of the procedure. It’s best to consult with your implant dentist to get an accurate cost estimate for your specific situation.
Dental implants are a safe and effective way to replace missing teeth, but like any surgical procedure, they carry a degree of risk. By understanding the potential risks and taking steps to minimise them, you can achieve a successful outcome and enjoy the benefits of a healthy, beautiful smile. You need to pay attention to your choice of doctor, which is one of the most important factors in dental treatments. Since your doctor’s expertise, experience and environmental hygiene can trigger risks in your treatment, you should make sure you make the right choice. If you want to get successful and affordable dental implant treatment, you can contact us. Who would not want to receive treatment in Turkey’s most successful and hygienic clinics?