Dental implants are an effective way of replacing lost or damaged adult teeth. It’s a procedure where Dr. Yan Li places a metal post into the bone of your jaw in place of a missing tooth. They then add an artificial tooth on top of the post to make your smile look natural. Implants are strong enough to withstand normal chewing.
When implants work as they are supposed to, they are better than dentures or bridge. They are stronger than removable teeth and usually more comfortable, but getting dental implants can take multiple procedures and carries some risk of complications.
What Are the Complications of Dental Implants?
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- Failure of osseointegration: Osseointegration is when the bone grows around your implant. If osseointegration fails, the implant won’t be secure enough to hold the crown in place. This is called dental implant failure. In the case of dental implant failure, the implant may fall out on its own, or you may need to have it removed. If your dental implant fails, you and your dentist can decide if you should replace the implant or try another option.
- Improper implant placement: Your dentist could make an error in placing your implant. If there is a problem with the location or angle of the implant, it can lead to complications. The implant may not fuse with the bone properly, may be too close to adjacent teeth and cause discomfort, or may become loose or painful. If this happens, you may need to have the implant removed or replaced. You may want to get a second opinion from a different dentist before getting a new implant.
What Are the Risks of Getting Dental Implants?
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- Sinus damage: One major dental implant risk is sinus damage. Your upper jaw is directly under your nasal sinuses. Implants to replace your top teeth can potentially penetrate into the sinus, leading to discomfort or possible infection. If this happens, your dentist will let you know what you can do to manage the situation.
- Infection: Like any oral surgery procedure, dental implant surgery has a risk of infection. Your dentist will give you instructions on keeping your incisions clean as they heal. If you notice pain, swelling, or fluid draining from the incision site, contact your dentist. You may need additional procedures to treat an infection of the gum or bone.
- Nerve damage: It’s possible for implant surgery to lead to nerve damage. Your dentist should take X-rays before the procedure to locate the nerves in your mouth. Nerve damage can have lasting effects, so you should discuss the risks with your dentist before the procedure.
Before you commit to dental implants, discuss all the risks with Dr. Yan Li. Be sure to tell her about any health conditions you have or any medicines you take. Dr. Yan Li will help you decide if implants are the best option for you.
