If you’re dealing with missing teeth and researching your options, you
may be considering dental implants. As an alternative to dentures and bridges,
implants permanently replace teeth from root to crown. Let’s take a look at
some of the advantages and possible complications of dental implants so you can
decide for yourself whether they’re worth pursuing a consultation.
Advantages of Dental Implants
Dental Implants offer many advantages over traditional replacement
options. The implant is a titanium post that is inserted into a patient’s jaw
bone. Because implants fuse to the jaw, they provide improved comfort, speech,
and appearance. Dental implant patients can eat their favorite foods without
discomfort or pain.
While removing and placing dentures can be a messy process, and
sometimes embarrassing when they fall out, dental implants stay in place. They
require the same hygiene care as real teeth, brushing, flossing, and routine
professional cleanings. Dental implants, unlike bridges, don’t alter the health
of surrounding teeth, which improves long-term oral health exponentially.
Dental Implant Complications
Dental implants have dramatically altered the way dentists and patients
think about replacing missing teeth. As long as patients are healthy enough to
undergo the procedure, they are candidates for dental implants.
Two requirements for this procedure are healthy gums and bone, although
many concerns can be addressed, making patients eligible. People interested in
implants should also be committed to regular dental visits and good oral
hygiene. With proper care, dental implants have a 98 percent success rate.
Complications occur in a small percentage of cases but can be treated
provided they are caught before severe symptoms take hold. Some of these
situations include:
• Infection surrounding the
implant
• Teeth decay and trauma
• Damage to the surrounding
nerves
• Sinus problems, particularly
if implants are placed in the upper jaw near the sinus cavities
• Implants fail to fuse with bone
- this is more common with heavy smokers
Caring for Dental Implants
Dental implants can last a lifetime as long as they receive proper care.
Brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits will protect the smile and ensure
it stays healthy.
Want to learn more about our dental implant procedures in Northern
Virginia? Call our office today to schedule an appointment.