Missing teeth is not uncommon for a number of adult patients. Dental implants are one of the most effective ways to safely replace one or more missing teeth. A dental implant can be used to support an individual crown or multiple implants can be placed for a full denture. Dental implants have a success rate between 95% and 97% but as with any surgical procedure, dental implants are not without risk.
Replacing missing teeth is not only beneficial to your oral health but also to your overall health. Without treatment, the space left by a missing tooth leaves room for remaining healthy teeth to shift in an effort to close the space, causing them to become loose and possibly fall out. Potential risks that your doctor will review with you before implant surgery include infection, sinus issues, nerve damage, or even implant failure. That is important for you to understand your potential risks but for most patients, the overall benefits usually outweigh risk potential.
Let's take a closer look at the potential risks associated with dental implants.
Infection
Anytime an incision is made on the body, there is a risk of infection. After implant placement surgery, you will be prescribed a round of antibiotics to prevent infection at the implant site. Any medication that your doctor prescribed should be taken as directed and info to ensure proper healing. Pain, swelling, redness, bleeding, and even halitosis are all indicators that your implant site may be infected. If you notice any of these symptoms, see your doctor right away.
Sinus Problems
Though rare, sinusitis can result from an implant placed on the upper arch protruding up into the sinus cavity of the upper jaw. Symptoms of sinusitis include tenderness or swelling in the eyes, cheeks, and forehead as well as headache, a reduced sense of smell, blocked nasal passages, fever, and toothache in the upper jaw. A sinus infection can be treated with antibiotics but you will need to see your implant surgeon to address any possible issues.
Nerve Damage
If an implant is placed too close to a nerve, it can result in long-term numbness or pain in the jaw. If you experience persistent pain, tingling, numbness, or a tickling or burning sensation in the gum tissue near your implant, it is vital that you seek medical attention. The lower jaw has a nerve running through it called the Inferior Alveolar Nerve (IAN) and injury to this nerve can be particularly serious.
Gum Recession
In order for an implant to be successful long-term, healthy gum tissue and bone structure is crucial. If your gum tissue begins to recede at the implant site, it is important for you to see your Dentist as soon as possible to make sure that you do not have gum disease which could potentially damage the area and lead to implant failure.
Peri-implantitis is a form of gum disease that develops due to chronic inflammation at the implant site. Symptoms do not present until after about five years and are indicated by bleeding or swelling around the implant.
Implant Failure
Dental implants are left to heal for up to six months after placement and before they are restored with a dental prosthesis. During this time, the implant will fuse to your jawbone which provides a stable foundation for the restoration. If the implant fails to integrate, it may become loose and may even fall out. Your implant surgeon may be able to remove the failed implant and try again but you will likely need a bone graft before the new implant can be placed.
If you are considering dental implants to replace missing teeth, discuss your options with your Dentist and make sure that you fully understand what risks are associated with dental implants.