Are tooth implants safe? This is a question that many Australians are asking as the number of people suffering from tooth loss continues to rise. Dentists recommend a dental implant to replace missing teeth because they offer numerous benefits, including improved appearance and oral health.
There are two main types of dental implants: endosteal and subperiosteal. Endosteal implants are directly implanted into the jawbone, while subperiosteal implants are placed on top of the jawbone.
Both types of implants are considered safe, but endosteal implants have a higher risk of complications. Despite the risks, a dental implant is generally considered a safe and effective treatment for tooth loss.
To learn whether dental implants are the right treatment option for you, find a qualified and experienced dentist that offers a consultation.
Are Tooth Implants Safe? The Dental Implant Procedure
With an overall 95% success rate, dental implants are the most recommended solution by dentists for replacing missing teeth due to decay, accidents or disease. The dental implant surgery procedure includes the following steps:
- The implants are surgically placed in the jawbone and allowed to heal for several months.
- Once the implant has bonded with the bone, a metal connector is attached. This component provides support for a false tooth, bridge, or denture.
- Following the healing phase from the abutment surgery, a restoration such as a crown, bridge, or denture is cemented onto the dental implant.
Your dentist performs dental implant surgery under local anaesthesia to minimise discomfort. Initial recovery from the procedure is usually quick, typically two to three weeks, and most patients experience little to no discomfort.
However, the osseointegration phase can last up to nine months before your dentist determines that you are ready to have the abutment surgery and restoration loaded.
Are Tooth Implants Safe? The Risks of Dental Implants
Dental implants have been used successfully and safely for more than five decades with patients who are generally in good overall and oral health. However, you should be aware of a few risks associated with dental implant surgery.
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Foreign Body Rejection
The body may reject the dental implant as a foreign object. This is more likely to occur in people who have a history of allergies or autoimmune disorders. Symptoms of rejection include pain, inflammation and tenderness at the implant site.
If your body rejects the implant, it needs to be surgically removed by your dentist. Your dentist may recommend using an alternative implant material like zirconia for metal allergies. Or, they may suggest an alternative tooth replacement option, like a bridge or denture.
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Peri-implantitis
Peri-implantitis is an inflammation of the tissue around the dental implant. It can cause pain, swelling and bleeding at the implant site. Peri-implantitis is more likely to occur in people with diabetes or a weakened immune system.
If left untreated, peri-implantitis can lead to bone loss and, eventually, the loss of the implant. Treatment usually involves a combination of antibiotics and surgery to remove the infected tissue.
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Sinus Perforation
Sinus perforation is a rare complication that can occur during an upper tooth dental implant placement. It occurs when the implant penetrates the sinus cavity, which is located behind the cheekbones.
Symptoms include pain, inflammation and nasal discharge, and the treatment consists of surgery to remove the implant and repair the damage to the sinus cavity.
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Gum Recession
Gum recession is a common side effect of a dental implant. The gum tissue around the implant begins to recede, exposing the metal implant. Gum recession can be caused by improper brushing, using a hard toothbrush or grinding your teeth.
Changing your oral care routine and using a soft toothbrush can help stop the gum recession. In some cases, surgery may also be necessary to cover the exposed implant.
Are Tooth Implants Safe? The Dental Implant Success Rate
Dental implant surgery has a high chance of success. Studies have shown that implants have a success rate of over 95%. However, several factors can affect the success of an implant, including the health of the patient and the quality of the implant. Poorly made or poorly fitting implants are also more likely to fail.
Are Tooth Implants Safe? Who Should Not Get Dental Implants?
A dental implant may not be suitable for everyone, such as those with certain medical conditions, such as people with diabetes, autoimmune diseases, blood clotting disorders, and some types of cancer. These conditions typically result in early implant rejection or an increased post-surgical bleeding or infection risk.
Get a Consultation at Your Local Dental Clinic in Croydon
If you’re looking for a reputable dental clinic in Croydon, get a dental consultation near you at Dental Spot. Our dedicated team of dentists provides a wide range of services, from teeth whitening and Invisalign to root canals and dental implants.
We provide a free initial dental implant surgery consultation, so you can determine which services are right for you. We accept all major insurance plans and offer financing options to make dental care affordable for everyone. Contact us on (02) 9158 6115 today to book your appointment.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Oral Health of Australian Adults: Distribution and Time Trends of Dental Caries, Periodontal Disease and Tooth Loss
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8583389/
Factors Affecting the Survival Rate of Dental Implants: A Retrospective Study
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5774056/
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