Dental Implants Problems

A dental implant refers to permanent replacement of artificial tooth root for the treatment of a missing tooth or a damaged tooth. The replaced tooth resembles and functions like a real tooth. In comparison to the several restorative options for tooth loss such as dentures and bridges, dental implants are considered as the most functionally effective and durable procedure. The advantages of dental implants include high aesthetics, stability, comfort and convenience. Very often, dentists recommend dental implant in conjunction with another procedure to increase its effectiveness. Let's discuss in brief about the dental implant procedure and the possible dental implants problems.

Dental Implant Procedure

When speaking about the dental implant procedure, it is performed in successive stages, during which the implant (made up of titanium) is placed in a pre-drilled socket in the jawbone. The complete process may last for several months depending upon the implant type and general health of the jawbone. As per statistics, the success rate of dental implants over a five year study period is about 95 percent for lower jaw and 90 percent for upper jaw. Nevertheless, similar to any surgical procedures, there are certain problems with dental implants.

Dental Implants Problems

Dental implants can be performed to replace many teeth. Though dental implants are considered to be a better alternative to other teeth restorative options, there are certain problems of dental implants. If the procedure is conducted by an experienced dentist, then the dental implants problems occur very rarely. Following are some of the dental implants problems that may develop after completion of the process:

Peri-Implantitis
Peri implantitis is one of the major dental implant failure causes. It is reported as one of the most common problems with dental implants. Peri implantitis is caused due to bacterial or other microbial infection at the dental implantation site. It is manifested as swelling and inflammation of the tissues that surround the dental implants. In severe cases, peri-implantitis may lead to damage of the jawbone.

Injuries and Damages
Like other surgeries, dental implant procedure may cause injury and damage to the tissues in the adjacent area. The affected area usually swells temporarily, which becomes normal within a few days. Proper care should be taken to prevent infection at the dental implantation site.

Loose Dental Implants
Loose implant is another common problem associated with dental implants. It is resulted due to improper placement of the implant or failure of the implant to integrate with the jaw bone. At times, the dental implant may break at the site. If such is the case, replacement of the dental implant should be done as soon as possible.

Nerve Damage
Another dental implant problem is nerve damage at the dental implant site. It is caused due to placing of the implant very near to the nerve or at times, over the nerve. Nerve damage causes unbearable pain, particularly if the implant is positioned directly over the nerve. In such a case, the patient should report about the pain immediately. The dentist may remove the implant (if necessary) and place again.

Sinus Problems
Sinus problems after dental implants may arise when the implantation procedure is performed for the upper jaw. If the implant disturbs any of the sinus cavities, it may result in sinus problems. The dentist may replace the implant to combat this dental implant problem.

In order to combat with dental implants problems, it is important that a dental implant candidate consults the dentist about the pros and cons of the procedure. Also, a patient should follow the necessary lifestyle changes in terms of diet, eating habits, personal hygiene and dental care as prescribed by the concerned dentist. If dental implants problems are unbearable and/or persistent, then it is is advisable to seek immediate medical attention, so as to prevent further complications.