What Complications Can Occur With Dental Implant Placements?
When people go to a skilled and trusted dental practice to replace their missing teeth with dental implants in Las Vegas, NV, their new teeth will give them reliable and predictable results. Sometimes, however, dental implant placement complications can still occur.
Dental implants are fastened directly into the jawbone through a surgical procedure, providing a strong base for artificial teeth known as crowns. This technique is highly valued, helping people regain their smiles, confidence, and full-mouth functionality. However, like any medical procedure, they come with their own set of risks. At Nevada Oral & Facial Surgery, we believe in providing our patients with all the necessary information to make informed decisions about their oral health.
Understanding Implant Complications
Complications in implant dentistry refer to challenges, problems, or detrimental outcomes of dental implants. While a caring and dedicated dental practice will strategically place dental implants with the latest techniques and technologies, complications can still occur. These complications range from minor issues such as mild discomfort, swelling, or bruising to more serious complications such as infection or nerve damage. It’s important to be aware that these potential issues exist and are inherent risks of the procedure.
Specific Surgical Risks and Considerations
Surgical complications are a concern for many people considering dental implants. Infection at the implant site, injury to surrounding teeth or blood vessels, and nerve damage leading to pain or numbness are some of the risks of dental implants. Using improper materials or techniques during the implant procedure can also increase the risk of these complications.
Sinus Damage: Sinus damage is a possible complication that can occur when dental implants are placed, especially when they are placed in the upper jaw. Sinus damage can happen in the upper jaw with dental implant placements because the upper jawbone lies close to the sinus cavities, and improperly placed implants can puncture or press against these cavities. Sinus damage can lead to sinus pain, pressure, and in some cases, chronic sinus infections. People might not notice their sinus damage complications immediately, but it can cause significant discomfort and complications over time.
Infections: Infections are another significant complication that can occur following a dental implant placement surgery. These infections, known as peri-implantitis, occur around the dental implant placement site and are primarily caused by bacteria present during or after the dental implant procedure. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, and pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes, can increase the risk of dental implant patients developing an infection. Dental implant infection symptoms may include swelling, redness, pain at the dental implant site, and sometimes, pus discharge. If not treated promptly, infections can lead to bone loss around the dental implant, jeopardizing its stability and potentially requiring its removal.
Nerve Damage: Nerve damage is a critical concern when dental implants are surgically placed in a patient’s jawbone, particularly if a dental implant is placed too close to a nerve in the jaw. This proximity of the dental implant post to the nerve can lead to numbness, pain, or a tingling sensation in the chin, lips, gums, or even the face. These nerve damage symptoms might be temporary for some patients, but for others, they could become a long-term or permanent complication. Precision in planning the placement of dental implants is crucial to avoid such adverse outcomes.
Long-Term Success and Maintenance
Dental implants aren’t immune to long-term complications. Bone loss around the implant can lead to failure, which highlights the importance of proper oral care. This process, known as osseointegration, requires adequate bone mass. Without it, the stability of your implants can be compromised, necessitating additional procedures. Peri-implantitis, a form of gum disease around the implant, can occur if proper oral hygiene isn’t maintained. Regular check-ups and cleanings are essential to ensure your implants stay in top condition for years to come.
Influence of Lifestyle and Health Conditions
Your lifestyle and health can affect the success of dental implants. Smokers and individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes may face higher risks of implant failure. It’s crucial to disclose your full medical history to our dental team to tailor the best treatment plan for your needs. Although rare, some patients may experience allergic reactions to the materials used in implants, particularly titanium.
How to Prevent Complications
Prevention is always better than cure. Proper care, follow-up, and maintenance of the implant, combined with the skill and proficiency of a professional implant surgeon, can greatly minimize the possibility of complications. Patients can ensure the longevity and success of their dental implants by following a strict oral hygiene routine and attending regular dental check-ups. Maintaining a balanced diet can also play a significant role in promoting overall oral health.
Choosing a qualified oral surgeon and following their post-operative care instructions significantly reduces risks. At Nevada Oral & Facial Surgery, we use the latest techniques and technologies to make sure your procedure outcomes are successful. Our practice has deep dental expertise and uses sound procedures and protocols to troubleshoot potential implant complications.
See Us Now So We Can Expertly Place Your Dental Implants
While there are risks associated with dental implants, they are generally considered safe and effective. Despite these risks, dental implants often provide better outcomes than other treatments like bridges or dentures. They offer a more natural look and feel, and unlike dentures, they don’t slip or require adhesives. Why wait to transform the look, function, and health of your smile with us? Get in contact with our doctors, Dr. Brendan Johnson, Dr. Gregory Hunter, and our exceptional team at our dental practice to schedule an appointment today!
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