Dental implants are a popular method of replacing missing teeth. Implants are metallic devices placed inside the jaw to support artificial teeth. The procedure of dental implants in Sidney is generally safe and effective, but certain risks do exist. By knowing these problems, one can take better care of their implant and avoid further complications.
Common Dental Implant Problems
Some of the common dental implant problems are:
Peri-implantitis:
Peri-implantitis is an infection of the tissue around the dental implant. This can affect gums, and its symptoms include redness, swelling, tenderness, or bleeding while gentle brushing or flossing. If left untreated, peri-implantitis can lead to loss of the bone around the implant.
Treatment would involve cleaning the area around the implant, and the dentist would prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection. In more serious cases, surgery may be needed to restore the area, and bone grafting might be required to support the implant.
Nerve or Tissue Damage:
In some cases, dental implants will irritate nerves or tissues. This can happen if the implant is placed too close to a nerve or if there is insufficient bone to support the metal post properly. This would create numbness in the gums, lips, or tongue.
If there is any damage to the nerves, then your dentist may need to reposition the implant or even conduct surgery to repair the site. This could even involve the removal of the implant.
Sinus Problems:
When implants are placed in the upper jaw, there is a risk of sinus complications. The implant could spread into the sinus cavity, resulting in sinus infections or sinusitis. Symptoms include sinus pain, a blocked nose, or a sinus headache.
The dentist may perform a procedure to adjust the implant or prescribe medicines to cure the sinus infection.
Allergic reactions:
Some patients might have an allergic reaction to the materials used in the dental implants, which is rare. When you are allergic, you might experience swelling, itching, or redness around the area of the implant.
If you think you have an allergic reaction to the material used in implants, consult with your dentist. They might need to change the implant (one that has been inserted in the jaw) or other materials or treat allergic symptoms with a medicine.
Prevention and Management
Importance of Pre-Procedural Evaluation
Before the dental implant is placed, a thorough check up is necessary to ensure there is enough bone and that your mouth is healthy enough for the surgery. Your dentist will take X-rays and may perform other tests to see if the implant will work well.
Contributing Factors to Implant Complications
Some of the following may increase the probability of dental implant complications, including:
- Smoking: Smoking can reduce the blood flow to the gums and thus slow down healing. It can also raise the chances of getting an infection.
- Health conditions: Certain health conditions, such as diabetes or osteoporosis, can affect the implant’s work. These health conditions are important to be controlled with the help of a professional.
Strategies for Preventing Complications
To help avoid problems with your dental implants, follow these tips:
- Oral hygiene: Regular brushing and flossing will help to maintain good oral hygiene. This will avoid the risk of infection and maintain a healthy area around the implant site. Additionally, consider implant surface decontamination to prevent issues related to bacteria on the implant surface.
- Regular check-ups: Visit your dentist for regular check-ups. They will examine your oral health and check the condition of your implant. If they find any problems, they can address them right away.
- Lifestyle changes: If you smoke, consider giving up smoking as it affects oral health and the healing of implants. Also, follow your dentist’s advice to keep your mouth in good condition and ensure good results with your implants.
Patient Education and Awareness
It is important to understand how to care for your dental implants and be aware of potential issues. You should discuss these with your dentist regarding warning signs of problems and how to take care of dental implants. Being informed helps to detect issues and thus treat them earlier.
Restore Your Functionality of Teeth At Sidney Harbour Dental!
At Sidney Harbour Dental Care, we focus on keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Our dentist in Sidney offers multiple services, such as check-ups, dental implants, and more treatments. We use the latest technology to make sure you get quality care in a comfortable setting. For more information about our services, please contact us today!
