Everything You Need To Know About Possible Dental Implant Complications

Dental implants have been used for over 50 years to replace missing or failing teeth. They have been a standard in cosmetic dentistry for so long because they provide a beautiful natural appearance, they’re comfortable, durable, and can improve your overall dental health. Unfortunately, even with these amazing pros, dental implants are not perfect and they do carry some risks.  It is also essential that you find an clinician with appropriate training and experience in implant care. 

Risks Associated With Dental Implants

Possible risks include infection, fracture, failure to integrate with the bone, and nerve injury. Other complications can occur, depending on the site and procedure. 

Infection

If when a dental implant is placed there is bacteria present around the implant it can cause an infection. If an infection arises it could prevent the metal implant from fusing with your bone.  Even if fusion did take, an infection could still arise and cause the bond between the implant and your bone to sever. 

The best way to reduce your risk of infection is with proper oral hygiene and by informing your dentist immediately if there are any signs of an arising problem. 

Fracture

If you have any “dental behaviors” such as clenching or grinding your teeth it is important to inform your dentist. These behaviors can put your implant at risk and cause a fracture.  Your implant is also at risk of fracture if the implant was placed incorrectly causing undue stress and pressure on the implant. 

Failure to Integrate

An implant may fail to integrate with the surrounding bone, or a graft may not heal as intended. This is generally described as implant or graft failure rather than the immune rejection associated with an organ transplant. Your clinician will investigate possible causes.

Nerve Damage

Nerve injury can cause numbness, tingling, or pain and needs prompt assessment. Treatment depends on the cause and severity. Implant removal may be considered in some cases, but removal does not guarantee nerve recovery.

Symptoms of a Possible Complication

Here are some symptoms and side effects to look out for:

• Loosening of the implant

• Inflammation after healing process has occurred

• Bad taste or smell from the implant

How are complications with dental implants treated?

There are several options for treatment of a possible complication. Here are a few of those options:

Replacing the Implant 

Your dentist will remove the dental implant, address the problem that caused the failure, and then install an entirely new implant. 

Grafts

Bone or gum grafting may help manage selected defects around an implant. Whether the implant can remain in place depends on its stability, the extent of disease, and the treatment plan. 

If it is determined that after implant failure or another complication that dental implants aren’t right for you the implant will be removed. Your dentist may replace the implant with dentures or a bridge. 

Resolving a complication with your dental implants is easier with quick action and communication with your dentist. Pain, swelling, and bruising are normal after an implant procedure, but if you think you’re experiencing any of the complications discussed in this article contact your dentist immediately. The quicker your symptoms are addressed the better. 

As someone suffering from tooth loss it is difficult to decide if you should or shouldn’t have surgery to insert dental implants to replace your teeth. At Smiles by Bergen Dental, Dr. Farinas-Han will patiently work with you to help decide if dental implants are right for you. If you’re suffering from tooth loss make an appointment at Smiles by Bergen Dental at your earliest convenience to prevent any further damage to your dental health.