Dental implants have been one of the leading inventions in dentistry, offering a good, lasting, and appealing option to those who were missing some of their teeth. Though this process is usually effective, the process shouldn’t be underestimated as complications could develop. This article provides a complete overview of the most common problems of dental implants, their causes, symptoms, and ways they can be treated, if any.
Dental implants are currently on the top of the list when it comes to replacing teeth. This is mainly because they look as real as your natural teeth, while the alternative methods for replacing missing teeth, e.g., dentures or bridges, can’t match the quality that dental implants possess. The nanometres titanium solar systems being implanted by the dentician are artificial tooth roots that ensure a strong platform for the provision of crowns, bridges, or dentures as fill-in. However, there are still some less common but inevitable risks that may occur.
Common Problems with Dental Implants
1- Implant-related Infection (Peri-implanttitis)
Like gum disease surrounding natural teeth, peri-implantitis is dental implants’ most common side effect. It is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation in the gum tissues around the implant and may eventually cause the loss of bone.
Causes: The leading cause of peri-implantitis is poor dental hygiene. Around the implant, bacteria grow and cause inflammation. Smoking, certain illnesses like diabetes, and a compromised immune system are other risk factors.
Symptoms: The symptoms of peri-implantitis can be sustained redness, swelling, and gingival bleeding on or near the implant site. Reaching areas might be difficult and cause you pain when biting or chewing. In most cases, this healing can be observed with the presence of nasal discharges and draining of the purulent fluid, and in more severe cases, there can be extensive pockets like space between implant and gum tissue formation.
Solutions: First of all, detection and intervention at an early stage have been proven to be successful in every treatment case. Professional supervision and teeth cleaning treatments are primarily needed to keep the disease at bay. Treatment options could either be only medication or pricier infections. In the early stages, a non-surgical procedure known as localized scaling and root planing around the implant may be enough. The gruel phases may require the use of antibiotics and surgical treatments like gum flap surgery when diseased tissue is removed and healing is promoted or when the implant should be removed in the worst cases.
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2- Implant Failure
Moreover, implant failure is not always a rare case. This means that the implant does not attach strongly enough to the jawbone (osseointegration), leading to loosening, pain, and even infection.
Causes: Many aspects may have to do with the implant rejection. These can be factors such as uncontrolled diabetes or osteoporosis, smoking, poor placement of an implant in low-density bone like in the upper jaw just behind the sinuses, overloading the implant by putting too much pressure while chewing, surgical complications, or allergic reactions to the implant material that rarely occur.
Symptoms: Following surgery, months, or even years later, indications of implant failure may manifest. These include gum tissue receding around the implant, swelling, pus discharge, implant movement, and ongoing pain or discomfort at the implant site.
Solutions: Regrettably, a failing implant usually requires extraction. Your dentist can assess if a new implant can be placed when the area heals and there has been enough bone regeneration. Bone grafting techniques may be used as part of implant failure treatment to enhance bone quality prior to reimplantation.
3- Nerve Injury
Nerve injury is a relatively uncommon consequence following implant surgery.
Causes: This problem may arise from inadvertent injury to the nerves in the mandible during implant implantation.
Symptoms: Depending on the damaged nerve, different symptoms apply. You may feel tingling, burning, or numbness in your tongue, gums, lip, or chin.
Solutions: Nerve injury may eventually heal itself in certain situations. Pain management techniques include physical therapy and medication. However, specialised surgical intervention may be necessary in cases of extensive nerve injury.
4- Implant Fracture
Dental implants can fracture under excessive pressure or due to material quality over time.
Causes: Overloading the implant due to bruxism (teeth grinding) or incorrect bite can lead to fractures. Certain medical conditions like osteoporosis can also weaken the jawbone and increase the risk of fractures.
Symptoms: A fractured implant might cause pain, especially when chewing, or a feeling of looseness.
Solutions: Depending on the location and extent of the fracture, the implant might be repairable. In some cases, removal and replacement of the implant might be necessary.
Causes of Dental Implant Problems
It is essential to comprehend the causes of dental implant problems in order to prevent and treat them. Typical reasons include:
- Bad Oral Hygiene: Peri-implantitis and infections might result from substandard care.
- Smoking: Smoking raises the chance of implant failure and can impair healing.
- Medical problems: The success of an implant may be impacted by specific medical problems and drugs.
- Developing Surgeons: Selecting an experienced implant specialist is essential.
- Insufficient Bone: Osteointegration may be impeded by insufficient bone density.
Preventive and upkeep
To reduce the possibility of dental implant issues, adhere to following recommendations:
Oral hygiene: Continue to practise good oral hygiene.
Frequent Examinations: See your dentist for regular checkups about implants.
Give Up Smoking: To enhance healing, if you smoke, think about giving it up.
Healthy Lifestyle: Choose a way of living that promotes general well-being.
Select a Reputable Provider: A renowned and skilled implant surgeon is what you want.
Final Words
Despite dental implants serving as an extremely successful solution for missing teeth, it’s important to note that you may also encounter some issues. That is why you need to be aware of these issues and take steps, including preventive and corrective actions. Dental appointments and regular use of oral hygiene products are your allies, and you should always use them in the struggle for long-term successful dental implants. When considering dental implants, it is beneficial to understand the common complications, their causes, the symptoms, and the solutions available to make informed decisions that lead to the good condition of your oral health, which is paramount to your overall well-being. Also, you can get help from us in Kakar’s pediatric dentists in Falls church.