Dental Implant Problems
Dental implants are a popular long-term solution for missing teeth. A dental implant is a metal post that is surgically placed in the jawbone to act like the root of a natural tooth. Implants are designed to support an artificial crown or to support prosthetic dentures. The stability and durability implants provide is one of the biggest reasons why they have become so popular among adults in the United States. However, the dental implant surgery can lead to complications or long-term problems. Before you decide if dental implants are right for you, you should become familiar with the implant procedure and potential dental implant problems. Here is more information on some of the common problems created by dental implant treatment.
Common Problems with Dental Implants
Some common problems that dental implants can cause, include:
- Sinus issues: Dental implants placed in the upper jaw can obstruct the sinus cavities, causing the sinuses to swell. This swelling can cause headaches, pain, tenderness, or swelling around the cheeks, eyes, or forehead.
- Damage from excessive force: Just like natural teeth, dental implants can be damaged or loosened by accidents or trauma. Additionally, grinding of the teeth during sleeping can also cause damage to dental implants. Individuals who grind their teeth should explore treatment options to protect their dental implants.
Problems After Implant Surgery
Though rare, there are problems that may occur after dental implant surgery, including:
- Infection: Without proper post-surgery care, dental implant surgery can cause an infection. This is why it is important to follow the detailed instructions provided by the oral surgeon. Treating the infection will depend on the severity and location of the infection.
- Gum recession: Some individuals struggle with receding gum tissue around the implant. The receding of the gum tissue can cause inflammation and pain. If you notice your gums pulling back from your implant it is important to contact your dentist and schedule a visit.
- Loose implant: A critical part of the implant treatment is when the dental implant fuses with the jawbone during the healing process. The healing period takes several months and is essential to the long-term success of the implant. In rare situations, the implant fails to fuse with the jawbone and will need to be removed.
- Nerve or tissue damage: The placement of dental implants is important to avoid the implant being placed too close to a nerve. Long-term numbness or pain can be caused by a poor placement. If you notice your implant is numb, tingly, or painful you should contact your dentist immediately.
Avoiding problems with dental implants
The best way to ensure the success of a dental implant is to follow the post-surgery instructions provided by the surgeon. After surgery, patients should avoid hot food, hot drinks, and strenuous activity for 2–3 days. Additionally, cleaning the tissue surrounding the implants is just as important as the daily cleaning of natural teeth. Lastly, to ensure your implants are healing successfully, it is important to maintain regular check-ups and routine dental cleanings.