Dental implants have been reigning in the restorative dentistry field ever since they were discovered. Suffering from missing teeth cannot be easy and dental implants are a simple way to solve the missing teeth problem. The main question, though, is Are dental implants safe?
Thanks to their permanence, dental implants are one of the most popular tooth replacement options. If you think you can improve your oral health and quality of life by getting dental implants, finding out whether dental implants are safe or not is a good move.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants are false teeth that replace your missing or decaying teeth to the root. By inserting a screw into your jawbone and topping it off with a crown attached to an abutment, these implants can help provide a strong foundation for your prosthetic teeth. They also look and function just like your natural teeth.
Are Dental Implants Safe?
The short answer to the question “Are dental implants safe?” is yes, dental implants are safe. Dental implants have a success rate of 90% to 95%. The procedure for installing dental implants has been performed by dentists quite successfully over the last couple of decades. Thanks to modern technology, the implant installation procedure has only been getting safer with time.
Getting dental implants does involve going through a surgical procedure. While there is a possibility of implant rejection or other risks, the number of people who actually face any problems after implant installation is small.
Are Dental Implants Safe for Older People?
Dental implants are safe for everyone, including older people. As long as you are in good overall health, there is no reason why you might face any complications or risks. If you are over the age of 60, you might want to consider the risk factors a little bit more seriously due to:
- Slower healing ability.
- Compromised bone health after surgery.
- Other pre-existing conditions which may lead to implant failure.
Eligibility Determines Safety
Implants are safe for most people, but can everyone be a candidate for them?
Who Can Dental Implants Be Risky For?
Dental implants might not be safe for you if:
- You have significant bone loss in your jawbone.
- You have extensive tooth decay.
- You have active and untreated gum diseases.
- You have autoimmune diseases or bone disorders.
These conditions do not necessarily mean you cannot get dental implants, period.
- If you have insufficient bone tissue, our periodontists at Periodontal Specialists can build up your bone tissue using bone tissue grafting to install the implant successfully.
- Extensive tooth decay can be fixed by tooth extractions and replacing them with implants.
- Active or untreated gum diseases can be treated with periodontal treatment, which can help restore your gum tissue health.
- If you suffer from other pre-existing conditions or bone disorders, your dentist will make the final call on whether you are eligible for implants based on your personal health.
Who Can Dental Implants Be Considered Safe for?
Dental implants can be considered safe if:
- You have healthy gums.
- You have excellent oral health and hygiene.
- You have adequate bone density.
- You do not suffer from bruxism.
- You do not use tobacco.
It is Safer to Get Dental Implants Than Not to Get Them!
Getting dental implants is definitely safer than not getting them. You see, dental implants offer numerous advantages over other tooth replacement alternatives.
Better Speech
Any speech issues you were facing due to missing teeth can be resolved by getting dental implants. These dental devices allow you to speak without slurring or lisping and do not allow your teeth to slip.
Highly Durable
When you take proper care of dental implants, they can last for decades. Implants do not corrode, break, or cause any damage or discomfort to your mouth.
Enhanced Appearance
Implants can restore your smile and boost your self-esteem. This makes them even more worth the minimal risk.
Easier Chewing
Chewing and eating without missing teeth can be difficult and a pain. Dental implants behave just like your natural teeth and allow you to chew food more efficiently and digest food better.
Risks Factors Associated with Dental Implants
Risks associated with dental implants are far and few. It is important to address the rare cases where complications may arise.
Infection
A common complication of dental implants is an infection on the placement site. The site can become inflamed and infected, leading to fever and pain. Make sure to follow your dental surgeon’s post-op instructions to the dot to avoid any such complications.
Loose Implant
Another common complication when it comes to implant installation is a loose implant. This can be due to several reasons. The jawbone may not have enough density or strength to hold the implant. Smoking, bad oral hygiene, or gum disease can also lead to implant loosening.
Nerve Damage
This is one of the most critical complications to ponder when considering “Are dental implants safe?”. Nerve damage occurs when an implant is placed too close to a nerve. You may experience a tingling or numbness in your mouth, tongue, or gums. It is vital to discuss all possible risks with your dental surgeon before the procedure.
Allergic Reaction
Most implants are constructed out of titanium alloy, a high-strength metal. While this metal suits most people, some patients may have an unknown allergy to this alloy. If you have swelling or inflammation on the implant site or are experiencing altered taste, you may be suffering from an allergic reaction. In this case, other alternative materials can be used to create the implant post.
Complete Your Smile with Safe Dental Implants at Periodontal Specialists
If you wish to get a complete smile with safe dental implants, then Periodontal Specialists is the place to go.
With surgically invasive procedures such as dental implant installation, it is important to know that you are in expert hands that can handle any risks and complications which may arise. Our periodontist, Dr. Kristy Johnson, is our expert in dental implant installation procedures and has received several years of additional training for dental implants, sinus lifts, and bone grafts.
Our expert team will make you feel comfortable and safe at all times. We now have offices in Northfield, Owatonna, Red Wing, Rochester, and Winona. Pick your location and schedule your appointment today!
Find expert dentists you can trust at Periodontal Specialists.
