Dental implants are a highly effective solution for replacing missing teeth, whether due to cavities, decay, injury, or even congenital conditions where teeth never fully developed. According to the Cleveland Clinic, more than 3 million dental implants are placed annually in the United States. While dental implants offer a reliable, long-term solution to tooth loss, it’s important to weigh the benefits against the potential risks and understand if they are the right choice for you.
What Is the Procedure for Dental Implants?
The dental implant process typically unfolds in several stages. First, if there is any remaining damaged tooth, it will be removed. Then, a small titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone where the missing tooth once was. Over time, this post will fuse with the bone in a process known as osseointegration, which usually takes a few months to complete, as outlined by the Mayo Clinic. Once the post has fully integrated with the bone, a crown or dental prosthetic is attached to it, restoring the appearance and function of your natural teeth.
This procedure is one of the most popular choices for tooth replacement due to its durability and the fact that it closely mimics the function of a natural tooth. Unlike bridges or dentures, which require special maintenance, implants are considered permanent once they heal and are properly maintained.
Potential Risks and Side Effects of Dental Implants
While dental implants are generally safe, they do involve surgery, which comes with some risks. It’s essential to understand these potential complications before moving forward:
- Infection: As with any surgical procedure, infection is a potential risk. Symptoms of infection may include swollen gums, persistent bad breath, or pus around the implant site. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to contact your dental professional immediately.
- Excessive Bleeding: While some bleeding is normal after the procedure, excessive bleeding or pain is a sign that something may be wrong. It’s crucial to seek a professional evaluation if bleeding persists or worsens.
- Sinus Complications: In cases where implants are placed in the upper jaw, there is a small risk of the implant protruding into the sinus cavity. This misalignment can result in sinusitis, leading to headaches, facial pain, pressure, or fever.
- Nerve Damage: Although rare, nerve damage can occur during the implant procedure. This may lead to numbness, tingling, or discomfort in the gums, teeth, or lips near the implant site. This condition is typically temporary but may become permanent in some cases.
- Allergic Reactions: While titanium is biocompatible for most individuals, there is a very small chance of an allergic reaction to the materials used in dental implants. This can cause symptoms like itching, rash, or, in very rare cases, anaphylaxis.
- Implant Failure: In some instances, dental implants can fail due to factors such as insufficient bone density, poor healing, or infection. If an implant fails, it may need to be removed, and the process will need to be revisited.
Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
While dental implants offer numerous benefits, they are not suitable for everyone. Certain conditions and lifestyle factors can increase the risk of complications. Individuals who smoke, grind their teeth, or undergo chemotherapy for head and neck cancer may not be ideal candidates. Additionally, people with compromised immune systems due to conditions like HIV, AIDS, osteoporosis, or uncontrolled diabetes may face challenges in healing after the procedure.
However, even if you have these conditions, it’s possible to still be a candidate for dental implants with proper management and adjustments to your treatment plan. Consulting with a skilled oral surgeon is key to determining the best course of action.
Let the South Jersey Dental Implant Surgeons at Lanzi Burke Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons Give You a Reason to Smile About Dental Implants
To determine whether you are a good candidate for dental implants, schedule a consultation with our South Jersey dental implant surgeons. Contact us online or call 856-582-4222 to schedule your initial consultation at Lanzi Burke Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons. We have offices in Washington Township, Haddonfield, and Woolwich Township, New Jersey, and proudly serve patients throughout South Jersey.